Nova 17" Lightweight Transport Chair with Fixed Arms

The Nova Medical 327 Lightweight Transport Chair is purpose-built for petite users who need a properly sized chair rather than squeezing into a standard 19" seat. The 17" seat and 21" overall width deliver a better fit, better posture support, and easier navigation through tighter spaces — all on a lightweight aluminum frame at just 18.75 lbs. Swing-away footrests, locking rear wheels, and an adjustable seat belt are all included. 300 lb capacity. HCPCS E1038. FSA eligible. Available in Red (327R) and Blue (327B).

Nova Medical 327 Lightweight Aluminum Transport Chair — 17" Narrow Seat

Most transport chairs come in an 18"–19" seat width — fine for average-sized users, but too wide for smaller or petite individuals who end up without proper lateral support. The Nova 327 addresses this with a 17" seat and a narrower 21" overall frame, giving petite users a chair that actually fits their body.

Despite the narrower profile, the Nova 327 doesn't compromise on capacity — it still supports up to 300 lbs on a durable lightweight aluminum frame weighing just 18.75 lbs. Available in Red (327R) and Blue (327B) for a personal look that stands apart from standard grey and black medical equipment.

Key Features

• 17" seat width — narrow frame designed for petite users
• Lightweight aluminum frame — 18.75 lbs, fully assembled out of the box
• 21" overall width — navigates tighter doorways and hallways more easily
• Padded nylon upholstery — seat and back
• Fixed full-length padded armrests
• Swing-away footrests with push-button adjustment, heel loops, and non-skid foot plates
• Footplate height adjustable from 5"–9" from floor
• 8" rear wheels with locking wheel locks and curb pedals
• Quick-release fold-down back for compact storage and car transport
• Adjustable seat belt included (adjusts to 41")
• 300 lb weight capacity
• HCPCS E1038 — may qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance coverage
• FSA eligible
• Limited Lifetime Warranty (metal frame) | 5-Year Warranty (brakes)
• Available in Red (327R) and Blue (327B)

Nova 327 (17") vs. Nova 329 (19") — Which Seat Width Is Right?

How to Size a Narrow Transport Chair

1. Measure Hip Width

   Have the user sit on a firm, flat surface and measure the widest point across both hips. Add 1" clearance on each side. If the result is 15" or less, the Nova 327's 16.5" usable seat width is the right fit. If hip width is 16" or more, consider the Nova 329's wider 19" seat.

2. Measure Seat-to-Floor Height

   Measure from the back of the knee to the floor with the user seated and feet flat. The Nova 327 has a 20" seat height. Footrests adjust from 5"–9" from the floor to accommodate different leg lengths.

3. Measure Seat Depth

   Measure from the back of the buttocks to behind the knee. The Nova 327 seat depth is 15.75". Allow 1"–2" clearance between the front seat edge and the back of the knee to avoid pressure and support circulation.

4. Check Doorway and Hallway Clearance

   At 21" open width, the Nova 327 is one of the narrower transport chairs available — ideal for tighter home environments. The 9.75" folded width is extremely compact for trunk and closet storage.

5. Confirm Weight Capacity

   The Nova 327 supports up to 300 lbs. For users over 300 lbs, a heavy-duty or bariatric transport chair is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does seat width matter — won't a petite user fit in a standard 19" chair?

A seat that is too wide creates real problems: the user's arms can't comfortably reach the armrests, there is no lateral support to prevent leaning or sliding, and posture suffers over time. A properly fitted seat — with 1"–2" of clearance on each side — provides better support, reduces hip pressure, and keeps the user more stable and comfortable.

What is the difference between the 327R and 327B?

Identical in every specification. The only difference is frame color: Red (327R) or Blue (327B). Choose based on personal preference or to identify an individual user's chair in a shared household.

How does the Nova 327 compare to the Nova 329?

The 327 and 329 share the same aluminum frame construction, weight capacity, HCPCS code, and feature set. The 327 has a 17" seat and 21" overall width — better for petite users and tighter spaces. The 329 has a 19" seat and 22"–23" overall width — better for average to larger users.

Does HCPCS E1038 apply to the 17" seat as well as the 19"?

Yes. HCPCS E1038 covers attendant-propelled transport wheelchairs regardless of seat width. Both the Nova 327 and 329 qualify under E1038. Coverage depends on payer criteria and medical necessity documentation.

Can the footrests be fully removed for transfers?

Yes. The swing-away footrests pivot and detach completely via the push-button mechanism. Always swing or remove footrests before assisting a user to stand so they can place feet flat on the floor for a safe transfer.

What warranty does the Nova 327 carry?

The metal frame has a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Brakes carry a 5-year warranty. Retain your purchase receipt and contact Nova Medical Products directly for warranty service.