| REPORT ATTRIBUTE |
DETAILS |
| Historical Period |
2019-2022 |
| Base Year |
2023 |
| Forecast Period |
2024-2032 |
| Stretcher Chair Market Size 2023 |
USD XXX Million |
| Stretcher Chair Market, CAGR |
4.28% |
| Stretcher Chair Market Size 2032 |
USD 342.81 Million |
Market Overview:
The stretcher chair market is expected to grow steadily, with an anticipated valuation of USD 342.81 million by 2032, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.28%.
This growth is propelled by a multitude of factors. A significant driver is the global aging population, which necessitates the use of stretcher chairs for safe and comfortable patient transport within healthcare facilities and during emergency medical services (EMS) operations. As the number of elderly individuals increases worldwide, the demand for stretcher chairs, which facilitate easy and safe patient transport, is expected to rise correspondingly.
Another contributing factor is the increasing healthcare expenditure worldwide. As healthcare institutions invest more in advanced medical equipment to enhance patient care and operational efficiency, the demand for stretcher chairs, which play a critical role in patient transportation, is expected to grow. These chairs not only ensure smooth patient transportation but also minimize the risk of injuries during transfers, thereby promoting patient well-being.
Emerging trends in the market are also shaping its landscape. There is a growing demand for multifunctional and smart stretcher chairs, which can adapt to various patient needs and healthcare scenarios. Lightweight and portable designs are also sought after for efficient EMS operations. Furthermore, there is a focus on infection control and hygiene, with manufacturers developing stretcher chairs that are easy to clean and disinfect.
These trends present opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and introduce products that align with evolving healthcare needs. By developing innovative stretcher chairs, manufacturers can meet the demand for multifunctional, lightweight, and hygienic products. They can also target emerging markets with expanding healthcare sectors, where the demand for advanced medical equipment, including stretcher chairs, is growing.
Providing excellent after-sales service is another way for manufacturers to enhance customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. By ensuring that customers receive timely and effective service after their purchase, manufacturers can build strong relationships with their customers, which can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.
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Market Drivers:
Rising Demand in Healthcare Settings:
The demand for stretcher chairs within healthcare settings is on the rise due to increasing hospitalization rates and an aging population. For instance, the global hospitalization rate due to COVID-19 was 4.6 per 100,000 during a 4-week period in 2023. Chronic diseases and age-related ailments contribute to higher admission rates. According to the World Health Organization, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) kill 41 million people each year, equivalent to 74% of all deaths globally. This necessitates efficient patient transport within healthcare facilities. Stretcher chairs play a vital role in ensuring safe and comfortable transfers, especially for elderly patients who require assistance with mobility. With a growing focus on patient safety and comfort, stretcher chairs offer a dignified alternative to traditional gurneys, aligning with patient-centered care principles.
Expanding Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Need:
The expansion of emergency medical services (EMS) further drives the demand for stretcher chairs, particularly in ambulance fleets. The need for rapid response in emergencies requires well-equipped ambulances with versatile and portable stretcher chairs. As EMS coverage extends to remote and underserved areas, there’s a corresponding need for stretcher chairs that can facilitate efficient patient transport in diverse settings.
Technological Advancements and Innovation:
Continuous technological advancements enhance the functionality and features of stretcher chairs, making them more user-friendly and versatile. Manufacturers integrate smart technology into stretcher chairs, incorporating features like vital sign monitoring and automated positioning adjustments. Focus on ease of use and durability ensures stretcher chairs withstand the rigors of healthcare environments while providing optimal comfort for patients. This growth is driven by continuous advancements in operation, design, size, and shape of stretcher chairs. For instance, powered stretcher chairs, which incorporate features like vital sign monitoring and automated positioning adjustments, are witnessing tremendous growth in the industry.
Growing Focus on Cost-Effectiveness and Regulatory Compliance:
Stretcher chairs offer a cost-effective solution compared to traditional gurneys, as they serve multiple purposes and require simpler maintenance. This aligns with the growing emphasis on cost-effectiveness in healthcare. Additionally, increasing awareness of patient rights and stringent regulatory requirements drive the adoption of compliant stretcher chairs that prioritize patient safety and dignity during transportation.
Market Trends:
Rising Demand in the Healthcare Sector:
An aging population and increasing healthcare expenditure worldwide are fueling the demand for stretcher chairs in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. With the global population of individuals aged 60 years and older expected to double from 12% to 22% between 2015 and 2050, the demand for stretcher chairs is projected to grow significantly. For instance, if a medium-sized hospital currently requires 100 stretcher chairs, they might need to increase their inventory to 150 or 200 in the next few years to accommodate the growing number of elderly patients. These facilities require efficient and safe patient transport solutions, making stretcher chairs a vital equipment choice.
Focus on Ergonomics and Comfort:
Both patient comfort and caregiver well-being are gaining priority. A survey of healthcare providers revealed that 80% of caregivers reported experiencing physical strain due to patient handling tasks. In response, manufacturers are developing stretcher chairs with ergonomic designs, comfortable padding, and adjustable features to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for patients during transport. For example, a new model might feature adjustable heights that can be modified with the push of a button, reducing the need for caregivers to bend or lift. Additionally, features that reduce strain on caregivers, such as easy maneuverability and adjustable heights, are becoming increasingly important.
Portability and Multifunctionality:
Stretcher chairs are no longer limited to healthcare facilities. There’s a growing demand for portable and multifunctional stretcher chairs for use in emergency medical services, disaster relief operations, and even outdoor events. The market for portable and multifunctional stretcher chairs is expanding beyond traditional healthcare settings. For instance, the demand for these chairs in emergency medical services has increased by 30% over the past five years. These chairs are designed to be lightweight (weighing less than 20 kg), easy to fold (can be collapsed in less than 2 minutes), and adaptable for various situations (with features like adjustable backrests and removable armrests).
Integration of Advanced Features:
Technological advancements are influencing the stretcher chair market. Manufacturers are incorporating features like adjustable heights, tilt mechanisms, and improved wheel designs to enhance functionality, ease of use, and patient safety. Remote control operation and automated positioning systems are also emerging trends, particularly in advanced healthcare settings.
Market Restraints and Challenges:
High Cost of Powered Stretcher Chairs:
One of the most significant challenges is the high cost associated with powered stretcher chairs. These advanced models offer features like electric height adjustment, tilting mechanisms, and automated patient positioning, significantly improving patient comfort and caregiver efficiency. However, their higher price point compared to manual stretcher chairs can be a deterrent for budget-conscious healthcare facilities, particularly in developing economies. This limits the overall market penetration of powered models, which could otherwise drive market growth.
Limited Reimbursement Coverage:
Reimbursement policies from governments and insurance companies often do not adequately cover the cost of advanced stretcher chairs. This can discourage healthcare providers from investing in these potentially beneficial tools, especially in scenarios where budget constraints are tight. Without proper reimbursement coverage, the market adoption of high-tech stretcher chairs may be slow, hindering the growth potential of this segment.
Lack of Awareness and Training:
In some regions, particularly those with less developed healthcare infrastructure, there may be a lack of awareness or understanding regarding the benefits and functionalities of advanced stretcher chairs. Additionally, healthcare staff might not receive adequate training on the proper operation and maintenance of these advanced models. This can lead to underutilization of the features and capabilities of stretcher chairs, hindering the perceived value proposition and potentially limiting market growth.
Stringent Safety Regulations and Compliance Requirements:
The stretcher chair market is subject to stringent safety regulations and compliance requirements. These regulations are essential for ensuring patient safety and functionality. However, navigating the complex regulatory landscape and obtaining the necessary certifications can be a time-consuming and expensive process for manufacturers. This can lead to delays in product launches and increased development costs, potentially hindering innovation and market expansion.
Competition from Alternative Patient Handling Equipment:
The stretcher chair market faces competition from alternative patient handling equipment, such as gurneys, transfer boards, and specialized lifting devices. The choice of equipment depends on factors like the patient’s condition, budget constraints, and facility layout. While stretcher chairs offer advantages in some scenarios, healthcare providers might opt for more affordable alternatives like gurneys for basic patient transport, limiting the market share of stretcher chairs in certain applications.
Recent Developments:
- In May 2022, LINET launched the premium emergency and transportation stretcher “Sprint 200” to significantly reduce musculoskeletal disorders of caregivers across the globe.
Segmentation Analysis:
By Application:
- The market is divided into general stretcher chairs and special stretcher chairs. General stretcher chairs are designed to cater to a wide range of patient needs and medical situations, making them suitable for use in different healthcare settings. Special stretcher chairs are tailored for specific applications, offering additional features or capabilities.
By Geography:
- The market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South America. North America dominates the market due to the presence of major manufacturers and advanced healthcare infrastructure. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure and expanding healthcare sectors.
By End User:
- The market is segmented into Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, and Others. Hospitals hold a significant share of the market due to the frequent need for patient transport within these facilities. Ambulatory Surgical Centers also contribute to the market growth due to the increasing number of outpatient’s surgeries.
The stretcher chair market is expected to grow steadily, driven by factors such as the aging population, increasing healthcare expenditure, and the growing emphasis on patient safety and comfort. Manufacturers have opportunities to innovate and introduce products that align with evolving healthcare needs.
Segments:
By Type
- General Stretcher Chairs
- Special Stretcher Chairs
By Application
- Hospitals & Clinics
- Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)
- Others
By Geography
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- UK
- Italy
- Spain
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- South-east Asia
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC Countries
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East and Africa
Key player:
- Acime UK Ltd.
- WyEast Medical Corp.
- Safety First Aid Group Ltd.
- IBIOM Instruments Ltd.
- Jiangsu Rixin Medical Equipment Co. Ltd.
- LINET Group SE
- HILL ROM HOLDINGS Inc.
- Productos Metelicos del Bages SL
- GF Health Products Inc.
- GPC Medical Ltd.
- Stryker Corp.
- Suzhou Fabio Medical Equipment Co. Ltd.
- Midmark Corp.
- NovyMed International BV
- UFSK-International OSYS GmbH
- SCHMITZ and Sohne GmbH and Co. KG
- Winco Mfg. LLC
Regional Analysis:
North America and Europe:
Currently, North America and Europe hold the dominant share of the global stretcher chair market. This dominance can be attributed to the well-established healthcare infrastructure in these regions, with a high concentration of hospitals, emergency medical services, and geriatric care facilities. Additionally, these regions have a growing geriatric population, a significant factor driving demand for stretcher chairs, which aid patient mobility and comfort. Stringent regulations regarding patient handling further contribute to market growth in these regions.
Asia Pacific:
The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth in the stretcher chair market during the forecast period. This is primarily due to factors like rising disposable incomes, increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, and an aging population in this region. Additionally, growing awareness about patient safety and improved living standards are propelling the demand for stretcher chairs in these developing economies.
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Rest of the World:
The rest of the world, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, is expected to experience moderate growth in the stretcher chair market. This growth will be driven by factors like increasing government healthcare expenditure, growing awareness of modern medical equipment, and rising investments in healthcare infrastructure development in these regions. However, limited access to advanced medical equipment and budgetary constraints in some countries might hinder the market growth to a certain extent.
Future Outlook:
- As the global population ages, the demand for stretcher chairs in healthcare facilities and for home care is projected to increase significantly.
- The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and advancements in minimally invasive surgical procedures will likely lead to a greater need.
- Manufacturers will continue to develop stretcher chairs with improved ergonomics, safety features, and comfort for both patients and healthcare personnel.
- Advancements in smart technology could lead to the development of connected stretcher chairs that monitor patient vitals or provide real-time location tracking within healthcare facilities.
- The growing popularity of home healthcare services will likely drive demand for portable and user-friendly stretcher chairs for use in patients’ homes.
- While powered stretcher chairs offer advanced features, the market may see a continued preference for manual stretcher chairs due to their lower cost.
- Growth in the stretcher chair market is expected to be particularly significant in developing economies as their healthcare infrastructure improves.
- Manufacturers are likely to focus on developing eco-friendly stretcher chairs made from recyclable materials or with energy-efficient features.
- The market may see the introduction of stretcher chairs designed for specific purposes, such as bariatric patients or those requiring specialized support.
- As e-commerce continues to grow, online platforms are expected to play an increasingly important role in the distribution of stretcher chairs.
