Nova 19 Inch Steel Transport Chair w/ Aluminum Footrests - 319

The Nova Medical 319 Steel Transport Chair is a reliable, full-featured 19" transport chair at an accessible price. Built with a durable carbon steel frame, padded full-length arms, swing-away footrests, and locking rear wheels — everything a caregiver needs to safely assist a user through daily activities, appointments, and travel. Includes a seat belt as standard. Available in Black, Blue, and Red. HCPCS E1038.

Nova Medical 319 Steel Transport Chair — 19"

The Nova 319 is one of the most widely used transport chairs in home care and clinical settings — and for good reason. It combines a practical feature set with straightforward durability at a price point that makes quality mobility accessible. The carbon steel frame holds up to 300 lbs, the swing-away footrests make transfers easy, and the fold-down back with quick-release allows compact storage in a car trunk or closet.

Available in three colors — Black (319), Blue (319B), and Red (319RD) — the Nova 319 fits a range of personal preferences without sacrificing any functionality. A seat belt is included as standard, an important safety feature often sold as an add-on with competing models.

Key Features

• Carbon steel frame — durable, stable, and corrosion-resistant finish
• 19" padded nylon seat with full-length padded fixed armrests
• Swing-away, adjustable footrests with non-skid foot plates
• 8" rear wheels with locking wheel locks (parking brakes)
• Quick-release fold-down back for flat, compact storage
• Foldable frame for vehicle transport and storage
• Seat belt included as standard
• 300 lb weight capacity
• HCPCS code E1038 — may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance
• FSA eligible
• Available in Black (319), Blue (319B), Red (319RD)

Nova 319 vs. Drive Medical AeroFly — How to Choose

Who Is the Nova 319 Best For?

• Users who need a 300 lb weight capacity at a more affordable price
• Caregivers seeking a reliable everyday transport chair for home use
• Patients whose insurance may cover HCPCS E1038 transport chairs
• Anyone needing a wider 19" seat for added comfort
• Users or families who prefer color options to personalize their equipment

How to Size a Transport Chair

1. Measure Seat Width

   Measure the user's hip width at the widest point while seated. Add 1"–2" for comfort. The Nova 319 has a 19" seat — suitable for average to larger users. The extra inch over standard 18" chairs can meaningfully improve comfort for longer-duration use.

2. Measure Seat-to-Floor Height

   Measure from the back of the knee to the floor while seated with feet flat. The Nova 319 seat height is 20" — slightly higher than many transport chairs, well-suited for taller users or those who need to stand from a higher position. Footrests are adjustable from 5" to 9" from the floor.

3. Measure Seat Depth

   Measure from the back of the buttocks to the back of the knee. The Nova 319 seat depth is 16". Leave 1"–2" between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knee to avoid popliteal pressure and poor circulation.

4. Check Doorway and Vehicle Clearance

   The Nova 319 folded width is 10.25" — compact enough for most car trunks. The unfolded width is 23". Standard interior doorways (typically 32"–36") accommodate this easily. Confirm narrow doorways or hallways before purchase if relevant.

5. Confirm Weight Capacity

   The Nova 319 supports up to 300 lbs — higher than many comparably priced transport chairs. For users above 300 lbs, a bariatric transport chair with a reinforced frame is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does HCPCS code E1038 mean and can insurance cover this chair?

E1038 is the HCPCS code for a transport chair — the billing code used by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurers to identify this product category. If a physician documents medical necessity and the patient meets clinical criteria, the Nova 319 may be covered in part or in full. Contact your insurance provider with the E1038 code to verify your specific coverage. FSA and HSA funds can also be used to purchase this chair directly.

Why is the seat listed as 19" but between-arm width is only 16.75"?

The 19" measurement refers to the full seat width including the seat pan. The between-arm measurement (16.75") is the usable interior space between the inner edges of the armrests — the space the user's body actually occupies. When sizing for comfort, compare the user's hip width to the between-arm measurement, not the seat width. Add at least 1" clearance on each side.

Can the footrests be fully removed for transfers?

Yes. The Nova 319 swing-away footrests pivot out to the side using a simple lever, and can be fully detached from the chair for standing transfers. This is important for safe sit-to-stand transfers — the footrests should always be swung away or removed before the user attempts to stand.

Does the seat belt restrain the user or just prevent sliding?

The included seat belt is a positioning belt — it helps prevent forward sliding and provides a gentle positional cue, but it is not a medical restraint. For users with fall risk, significant trunk instability, or dementia, consult an occupational therapist regarding additional postural support options. Never use a seat belt as the sole fall-prevention measure.

How do the locking rear wheels work?

The Nova 319 has wheel locks (parking brakes) on the rear wheels — levers near the seat that press against the tire to prevent the wheel from rolling. These should be engaged any time the chair is stationary and the user is getting in or out. They are not attendant brakes (which allow braking while pushing) — they are parking locks only.

Is the Nova 319 suitable for outdoor use?

The Nova 319 handles smooth outdoor surfaces well — sidewalks, parking lots, and paved paths. The 8" rear wheels provide moderate stability on slight inclines. Uneven terrain, gravel, grass, or steep ramps are not recommended and can reduce caregiver control. For frequent outdoor use on varied terrain, a transport chair with larger wheels or a rollator-transport combo may be more appropriate.

What is the difference between the 319, 319B, and 319RD?

The only difference between these three SKUs is the frame color — Black (319), Blue (319B), and Red (319RD). All specifications, dimensions, weight capacity, and features are identical across the three color options.