If you are a person with disabilities and have, or are in the process of purchasing an accessible van, you probably know about the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association’s Quality Assurance Program (QAP).
The program was developed to elevate the level of mobility dealer performance to reliably meet a consumer’s transportation needs in the safest manner possible.
The QAP designation means that enhanced vehicle modification and adaptive equipment installation are consistent with the highest industry standards. Members must comply with certain aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and “Make Inoperative” mandates.
The Quality Assurance Program wasn’t always a requirement for membership. It was optional until 2011. But now it is part of NMEDA’s bylaws; it became mandatory as dealers renewed their memberships throughout the year.
- Wth QAP, NMEDA members are audited at least once a year to ensure they are following stringent guidelines, thus ensuring higher dealer standards and a stronger organization.
- Most QAP requirements have to do with quality-control, insurance, certification, record keeping and more—to benefit you, the mobility dealers’ customers. The one clients remember most is the 24-hour emergency service, but they all contribute to make a national organization of businesses you can trust.
- To read all the requirements, visit www.NMEDA.com and click on “What you need to know abou the Quality Assurance Program.
NMEDA reaches out to inform consumers, advocacy groups, and occupational and physical therapists of the value of QAP—the value of working with dealers who specialize in adaptive automotive equipment and are backed by a national organization such as NMEDA.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible vehicle, please consider one of our mobility equipment dealers.