CMC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CMC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary clinical significance of measuring seat-to-floor height during a wheelchair evaluation? → It affects transfer safety and foot support positioning
2. For a client who requires a power seat elevation system, the PRIMARY clinical justification is typically: → To improve line-of-sight for social interaction and functional reach
3. What is the primary ethical obligation of a CMC professional when a conflict of interest arises during atp seating & mobility assessment activities? → Disclose the conflict to all relevant parties and recuse from the decision if necessary
4. An elevator call button must be located at what maximum height above the floor? → 48 inches
5. When documenting a driving evaluation recommendation, which element is most critical for justifying adaptive equipment to a funding source? → The link between specific functional deficits and the recommended equipment
6. A client with low vision needs contrast improvements in their home. Which modification provides the most functional benefit at stair edges? → Installing contrasting color nosing strips on each stair tread edge
7. A power wheelchair user complains that the chair drifts to one side during straight-line driving. What is the most likely adjustment needed? → Perform motor balance or joystick calibration
8. Why is it important to understand the environment where the mobility product will be used? → To ensure the product is suitable for its intended environment
9. Which Medicare functional classification level (K-level) is required for coverage of an ultra-lightweight manual wheelchair (K0005)? → K3 or K4
10. Which type of flooring transition is most appropriate when connecting carpet to hard flooring for a wheelchair user? → A flush or low-profile transition no higher than 1/2 inch beveled
11. What should be considered when conducting a needs analysis for mobility solutions? → Living environment, support systems, and goals for mobility
12. Which of the following is an important consideration when evaluating mobility in older adults? → Age-related physical changes such as muscle weakness
13. Under NMEDA quality assurance guidelines, an adaptive equipment dealer must retain installation documentation for a minimum of: → 7 years
14. Why is it important to regularly assess the effectiveness of assistive devices? → To ensure the devices are still appropriate for the client's needs
15. When a Medicaid-funded wheelchair must be replaced due to wear beyond repair, the standard replacement cycle under most state policies is approximately: → 5 years
16. A Medicaid recipient's wheelchair claim is denied because the device is deemed 'not medically necessary.' The FIRST step in the appeals process is typically: → Submitting a redetermination or internal appeal to the Medicaid agency
17. Which federal program is the primary payer for wheelchair and mobility equipment in the United States? → Medicare
18. Which entity conducts Level 2 Medicare appeals (reconsideration) for DME claims? → A Qualified Independent Contractor (QIC)
19. When should a tilt-in-space wheelchair be recommended? → When the user cannot independently shift weight and needs passive pressure relief
20. A client with muscular dystrophy requires power recline on their power wheelchair. What distinguishes power recline from power tilt-in-space? → Recline opens the seat-to-back angle; tilt moves the entire seating system as a unit
21. Under Medicare's five-level appeals process, which level involves an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing? → Level 3 — ALJ Hearing
22. Which school-based federal law requires that assistive technology, including mobility devices, be considered for eligible students as part of their IEP? → IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
23. Which organization accredits DME suppliers and is recognized by CMS as a condition of Medicare enrollment for complex rehab technology suppliers? → The Joint Commission (TJC) or Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC)
24. A client with C5 tetraplegia wants to self-propel a manual wheelchair. Which rear wheel position change would MOST improve propulsion efficiency? → Move wheels forward and lower axle position
25. Which type of hand control is most appropriate for a driver who needs simultaneous acceleration and braking capability with one hand? → Electronic hand control with proportional input
26. A Medicaid beneficiary in Texas needs a power wheelchair. Which agency administers Medicaid funding decisions for DME in that state? → Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)
27. How many accessible parking spaces are required for a lot with 75 total spaces under ADA Standards? → 3
28. When assessing a client's vehicle for a hand control installation, which measurement is essential before selecting a push-pull control length? → Distance from the driver's seated shoulder to the hand control pivot point
29. Which document provides the technical specifications that the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are based upon? → ANSI A117.1-2003
30. A pediatric client using a manual wheelchair is growing rapidly. Which wheelchair feature BEST accommodates growth without requiring full replacement? → Adjustable-width seat frame with adjustable axle position and seat depth