What is actually required?
Information that is clear for healthcare providers that receive federal or state funding.
17-19 inch Transfer Height
The DOJ and HHS have adopted this as the enforceable standard for accessible exam tables – not 17 inches as some in the industry are incorrectly claiming.
10-20% of Tables
Not every table needs to meet the standard. Facilities must ensure 10 – 20% of exam tables are compliant, based on the type & size of the healthcare setting.
10-20% of Tables
Not every table needs to meet the standard. Facilities must ensure 10 – 20% of exam tables are compliant, based on the type & size of the healthcare setting.
MedicalPositioning has options that are COMPLIANT with DOJ and HHS ADA standards
EchoBed®
17-19″ Height Range
EchoBed® is an advanced imaging table from MedicalPositioning, designed to support cardiac and vascular imaging through unobstructed patient access, precise electric positioning, and ergonomic design considerations for clinical teams. With dual rapid-release imaging drop sections, electric patient back support with up to 85° Fowler positioning, ADA-compliant height ranges of 17″–31″ or 19″–37″, and a patient weight capacity of up to 750 lbs, EchoBed® is designed to accommodate a broad patient population while supporting consistent imaging workflows.
Multimodality Ultrasound & Vascular Tables
Low Transfer Height
Exam tables adjust between 17-19 inches to support safe, accessible patient transfers
Seated Transfer Surface
Must be at least 21″ wide by 17″ deep to meet the ADA requirement for seated-position equipment transfers.
Two-Side Transfer Access
Side and End Access allows patient transfers from both the long and short side of the exam surface.
Support Rails & Armrests
Assist handles must be available to provide stability and confidence for patients during transfers and repositioning.
Leg Stability Standards
Leg supports must be provided with stirrups to safely position & stabilize patients with limited leg strength.
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FAQs
What is the current enforceable regulation for exam tables?
As of 2024, the DOJ and HHS enforce the 2017 U.S. Access Board standards, requiring exam tables to have a low transfer height between 17–19 inches.
Do all exam tables need to meet the 17–19 inch standard?
No. Facilities must ensure that 10–20% of their exam tables (and other diagnostic equipment) meet the standard, depending on the healthcare setting.
What about the newer 17-inch height recommendation I’ve heard about?
In 2024, the U.S. Access Board issued a new recommendation to lower the minimum transfer height to 17 inches.
This is not enforceable. For it to become law, DOJ and HHS would need to initiate a formal rulemaking process—a lengthy, uncertain step that hasn’t been started.
What is the difference between a recommendation and a regulation?
A recommendation is a proposed best practice from the Access Board. A regulation becomes enforceable only when adopted by DOJ or HHS through rulemaking. Currently, the enforceable regulation is the 17–19 inch range.
Who Must Comply?
Federally Funded Clinics and Facilities
Enforced under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act by HHS (Health and Human Services).
Applies to providers that receive federal financial assistance (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid).
State and Local Government Healthcare Facilities
Enforced under Title II of the ADA by the DOJ (Department of Justice).
Applies to public hospitals, clinics, and any healthcare setting operated by state/local governments.
Does the regulation apply only to exam tables?
No. The standards also cover scales, diagnostic chairs, and imaging equipment—not just exam tables. Requirements vary by equipment type.
Are any of MedicalPositioning products compliant?
Yes. The EchoBed®, VasScan Table™ X, and the MultiView® are ADA compliant.
When do providers need to be compliant?
July 8, 2026 – Federally funded facilities must have at least one compliant exam table and scale.
August 9, 2026 – State and local facilities must meet the same requirement.
What other accessibility features are required beyond transfer height?
Transfer surface size and firmness
Lift compatibility
Support rails or assist handles
Wheelchair accessibility
Reachable controls
Standing support and communication features
