Global Patient Handling Device Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Accessories;
Lifting and Transfer.By Application;
Long-Term Care, Acute & Critical Care, Fall Prevention, and Mobility Assistance.By End User;
Home and Hospital.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Patient Handling Device Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Patient Handling Device Market was valued at USD 14,485.74 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 26,779.53 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.2%.
The Global Patient Handling Device Market, a critical segment of the healthcare industry, is witnessing significant growth driven by an increasing global focus on patient safety, the aging population, and advancements in medical technology. Patient handling devices encompass a broad range of equipment designed to facilitate the safe and efficient movement, transfer, and support of patients within healthcare settings. These devices include, but are not limited to, wheelchairs, patient lifts, medical beds, and accessories that enhance mobility and reduce the risk of injuries for both patients and healthcare providers. One of the primary catalysts for the expansion of this market is the rising prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries among healthcare workers, often resulting from manual patient handling. According to the World Health Organization, such injuries are a leading cause of disability worldwide. This has prompted healthcare institutions to adopt safer, more ergonomic patient handling solutions to protect their workforce, thus fueling the demand for advanced handling devices. Moreover, stringent government regulations and guidelines aimed at promoting workplace safety and reducing occupational hazards further bolster the market's growth.
The aging global population significantly impacts the demand for patient handling devices. As life expectancy increases, so does the incidence of age-related conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and limited mobility, necessitating the use of specialized equipment for daily activities and medical care. Additionally, the rise in the number of bariatric patients, due to the global obesity epidemic, has led to the development and adoption of more robust and advanced patient handling solutions tailored to this demographic. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in transforming the patient handling device market. Innovations such as electric and hydraulic lifts, smart wheelchairs, and automated transfer systems have enhanced the safety, efficiency, and comfort of patient handling processes. These advancements not only improve patient care but also streamline operations within healthcare facilities, leading to increased productivity and cost savings.
The market's growth is further propelled by the expanding healthcare infrastructure in developing regions. Increased healthcare spending, coupled with government initiatives to improve healthcare services, has led to greater adoption of modern patient handling devices in countries across Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. These regions offer significant growth opportunities as they continue to modernize their healthcare systems and address the needs of their growing and aging populations.
Global Patient Handling Device Market Recent Developments
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In 2020, Arjo announced a partnership with PayPal to provide solutions for air-assisted lateral patient transfers. PayPal specializes in these devices that use an air cushion to improve patients' lateral movement and reduce the risk of damage to both patients and caregivers.
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In 2020, Invacare Corporation announced the Invacare AVIVA FX Power Wheelchair launch. It was developed based on the customer's requirement and improved the flexibility to move and do any task that they could do.
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In 2020, Stryker launched a wireless hospital bed named ProCuity that helps reduce patient falling from the bed in hospitals, improves the work efficiency of nurses, and reduces the additional cost.
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In June 2019, Prism Medical acquired Scottish, expected to accelerate its services in the UK. These companies are focused on improving patient lifting and bathing equipment.
Segment Analysis
Accessories, the market is categorized into Lifting and Transfer devices. Lifting devices include a range of equipment such as ceiling lifts, mobile lifts, and sit-to-stand lifts, which are pivotal in ensuring the safe elevation and repositioning of patients, thereby mitigating the risk of injury to both patients and caregivers. Transfer devices encompass products such as transfer belts, sliding sheets, and transfer boards, which facilitate the safe and efficient movement of patients from one location to another, such as from bed to wheelchair or from wheelchair to toilet. This segmentation by accessories highlights the critical tools required to support patient mobility and handling in different scenarios. The market is divided into Long-Term Care, Acute & Critical Care, Fall Prevention, and Mobility Assistance. Long-Term Care applications focus on devices that assist in the ongoing care of patients with chronic conditions or disabilities, ensuring their comfort and mobility over extended periods. Acute & Critical Care involves equipment designed for use in intensive care units and emergency settings, where rapid and safe patient handling is paramount to address critical health situations. Fall Prevention applications are centered around devices and accessories that reduce the risk of falls, a common concern in healthcare facilities, especially for elderly and mobility-impaired patients. Mobility Assistance encompasses a broad range of products aimed at enhancing the day-to-day mobility of patients, improving their independence and quality of life.
The market segmentation includes Home and Hospital settings. In the home care environment, patient handling devices are tailored to facilitate caregiving by non-professional family members or home healthcare aides. These devices are designed for ease of use, portability, and safety to ensure effective care in non-clinical settings. In contrast, the Hospital segment requires more robust and technologically advanced handling solutions to cater to the diverse and often intensive needs of patients within clinical and surgical environments. Hospitals necessitate a wide array of equipment, from basic aids to sophisticated, automated systems that streamline patient handling processes, reduce the physical strain on healthcare workers, and enhance patient outcomes.
Global Patient Handling Device Segment Analysis
In this report, the global patient handling device market has been segmented by Accessories, Application, End User, and Geography.
Global Patient Handling Device Market, Segmentation By Accessories
The Global Patient Handling Device Market has been segmented by Accessories into Lifting and Transfer.
Lifting accessories encompass a wide array of equipment designed to aid in the vertical movement of patients. These devices, including ceiling lifts, floor-based lifts, and sit-to-stand lifts, are crucial in reducing the physical strain on healthcare workers while enhancing patient safety. Ceiling lifts, often installed in hospital rooms, provide a permanent solution for patient mobility, allowing seamless transfers between bed and chair without manual lifting. Floor-based lifts, which are mobile and versatile, are particularly useful in environments where ceiling lifts are impractical. These devices are essential in preventing musculoskeletal injuries among caregivers by reducing the manual effort required in lifting patients. Sit-to-stand lifts, on the other hand, are tailored for patients who can support some of their own weight but need assistance moving from a seated to a standing position. These lifts promote patient independence and facilitate mobility during rehabilitation and daily activities.
Transfer accessories, comprising slide sheets, transfer boards, and transfer belts, are designed to facilitate the horizontal movement of patients. These devices are pivotal in minimizing friction and shear forces that can cause skin injuries during patient transfers. Slide sheets, typically made of low-friction materials, allow for easy repositioning of patients in bed or between surfaces, significantly reducing the physical effort required by caregivers. Transfer boards provide a stable and smooth surface for patients to slide across when moving between beds, chairs, or wheelchairs. They are particularly beneficial in scenarios where patient mobility is limited, and a direct lift is not feasible. Transfer belts, also known as gait belts, are used to provide support and stability to patients during transfers or when assisting with ambulation. These belts help caregivers maintain a secure grip on patients, ensuring safe and controlled movements.
Global Patient Handling Device Market, Segmentation By Application
The Global Patient Handling Device Market has been segmented by Application into Long-Term Care, Acute & Critical Care, Fall Prevention, and Mobility Assistance.
This segment encompasses devices used in settings where patients require extended care over a prolonged period, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare. The primary focus is on ensuring the comfort, dignity, and safety of patients who often suffer from chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age-related conditions. Devices like specialized beds, transfer aids, and patient lifts are essential in this segment to facilitate daily activities and reduce the physical strain on caregivers. The growing elderly population and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases are significant drivers for the long-term care segment, propelling demand for advanced and reliable patient handling solutions.
Patient handling devices are utilized in hospitals and intensive care units (ICUs) where immediate and intensive care is required. This includes emergency rooms, surgical wards, and trauma centers. The primary concern here is to provide swift, safe, and efficient movement of patients who are in critical condition and often immobile or incapacitated. Devices such as hydraulic patient lifts, transfer boards, and motorized hospital beds are indispensable in acute and critical care settings. The growing incidence of accidents, surgeries, and acute medical conditions necessitates the adoption of these devices, ensuring better patient outcomes and minimizing risks associated with manual handling.
Fall prevention is a critical application area within the patient handling device market, particularly for elderly and frail patients who are at a higher risk of falls. This segment includes devices designed to prevent falls and related injuries, such as bed alarms, anti-slip mats, and gait belts. These devices are crucial in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home care, to ensure patient safety and reduce the incidence of fall-related injuries. The increasing awareness about fall prevention and stringent regulatory standards further drive the demand for such devices.
Mobility assistance devices are essential for enhancing the independence and quality of life of patients with limited mobility. This segment includes wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and scooters designed to aid in the safe and effective movement of patients both within healthcare facilities and in their daily lives. The rising prevalence of mobility impairments due to age, injury, or disability fuels the demand for these devices. Innovations in this segment, such as lightweight and foldable designs, smart wheelchairs with advanced control features, and motorized scooters, cater to the evolving needs of patients and contribute to market growth.
Global Patient Handling Device Market, Segmentation By End User
The Global Patient Handling Device Market has been segmented by End User into Home and Hospital.
Hospital settings constitute a substantial portion of the market, driven by the increasing demand for patient handling devices in healthcare facilities worldwide. Hospitals require a diverse range of equipment such as patient lifts, medical beds, and stretchers to facilitate safe and efficient patient transfer, positioning, and mobility within clinical environments. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, surgeries, and elderly care in hospitals underscores the critical importance of these devices in enhancing patient care outcomes while minimizing the risk of caregiver injuries. Moreover, stringent safety regulations and guidelines mandate the adoption of ergonomic and technologically advanced patient handling solutions, further stimulating market growth in this segment.
Patient handling devices tailored for home use include lightweight wheelchairs, portable patient lifts, and assistive devices designed to promote independence and mobility among patients with disabilities or chronic conditions. The shift towards home-based care is supported by advancements in technology that enable safer and more manageable caregiving experiences for family members and professional caregivers alike. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of home healthcare solutions, boosting demand for patient handling devices that facilitate remote monitoring and support continuity of care outside traditional healthcare settings. Both segments benefit from ongoing technological innovations aimed at improving device usability, safety features, and connectivity capabilities. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing user-friendly interfaces, battery-powered devices for increased mobility, and integration of smart technologies such as IoT for real-time monitoring and data collection. Customization options tailored to specific patient needs, coupled with efforts to enhance product durability and sustainability, further differentiate offerings in both home and hospital markets.
Global Patient Handling Device Market, Segmentation By Geography
In this report, the Global Patient Handling Device Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Patient Handling Device Market Share (%), By Geographical Region, 2024
The North American market is predicted to account for most of the global patient handling devices market share during the forecast period. The increasing incidence of MSD-caused injuries to caregivers, the growing geriatric population, and the rise in the widespread chronic diseases in this region is estimated to drive market growth—increasing hospital injury for patients, caregivers, and nurses in American hospitals, which drives the market forward. Patient lifting is a significant task for caregivers or healthcare workers in hospitals. Canadian regulations have taken more action in manufacturing patient lifting devices for the convenience of Canadian people.
The European market is estimated to register a substantial share in the global market over the forecast period. Increased use of these medical devices due to the patient pool, increasing elderly care facilities and rehabilitation centers, and the possibility of reducing the risk of patient injuries are the driving factors for the patient handling devices market.
The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region globally during the forecast period, with influential growth factors such as the prevalence of chronic diseases; improving healthcare infrastructure is most likely to accelerate the market growth of the patient handling devices market. In China, home-based healthcare is increased due to fewer hospital stays. Many governments in China have adopted by investing in devices that are helpful for the patient to move from one position to another who cannot move on their own. China is the second largest economy in the world and consists of a large number of older adults. Most of the hospitals in China gives shorter hospital stay by providing more health services in their own homes. By considering all these factors, both Hospital and home-based devices have demand.
The market in the Middle East Africa region is expected to have a sluggish growth rate during the forecast period. However, government organizations adopting safety guidelines for manual handling and minimizing the risk of injuries to caregivers are projected to grow the market in this region.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Patient Handling Device Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis..
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing Awareness of Patient and Caregiver Safety
- Rising Obesity Rates
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Patient Comfort and Dignity- In hospitals and care facilities, the design of patient handling equipment has evolved significantly to incorporate features that reduce discomfort and stress for patients. For instance, advanced patient beds equipped with pressure relief systems, adjustable height settings, and ergonomic designs help in minimizing the risk of bed sores and enhancing comfort. Additionally, devices like ceiling lifts and portable patient lifts are engineered to provide smooth, gentle transfers, reducing the strain on patients and preventing injuries associated with manual handling.
The focus on patient dignity is also driving innovation in the development of more discreet and less intrusive handling solutions. For example, privacy screens and specialized garments designed to be easily removed and replaced during patient transfers contribute to a sense of privacy and respect, helping to preserve the dignity of patients, especially those who are vulnerable or experiencing sensitive conditions. This aspect is crucial in promoting a positive patient experience, fostering trust, and improving overall patient satisfaction and recovery outcomes. Furthermore, the integration of technological advancements enhances both comfort and dignity. Features such as automated controls, adjustable settings, and smart monitoring systems allow for more personalized care, enabling caregivers to tailor interventions to the specific needs of each patient. Innovations such as voice-activated controls, remote monitoring, and connectivity with healthcare information systems ensure that patient care is efficient, responsive, and minimally invasive.
In the home healthcare segment, the drive for patient comfort and dignity is equally significant. Home-based care solutions are designed to be user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to operate, allowing patients to maintain a sense of normalcy and independence. Devices like home lifts, transfer aids, and mobility aids are crafted to blend functionality with comfort, ensuring that patients can move safely and comfortably within their homes without compromising their dignity.
Restraints
- Limited Awareness and Training in Developing Regions
- Budget Constraints in Small and Medium Healthcare Facilities
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Reluctance to Adopt New Technologies- Despite advancements in patient handling devices that promise enhanced safety, efficiency, and patient outcomes, the healthcare industry often exhibits caution in adopting these innovations due to several key reasons. Healthcare providers and institutions are typically risk-averse when it comes to integrating new technologies into their workflows. The introduction of unfamiliar equipment requires extensive training and adaptation periods for healthcare staff, which can disrupt established routines and potentially impact patient care in the short term. Concerns about the learning curve and initial investment costs may deter decision-makers from investing in new technologies without clear evidence of long-term benefits.
There is a perceived need for robust clinical evidence and validation of new technologies before widespread adoption. Healthcare professionals prioritize patient safety above all else and require convincing data demonstrating the efficacy, reliability, and safety of new patient handling devices. Without comprehensive clinical trials or real-world case studies proving the benefits of these technologies, skepticism persists among stakeholders who prefer to rely on established practices and equipment. Furthermore, interoperability issues with existing healthcare systems and infrastructure pose significant challenges. Many patient handling devices, especially those incorporating IoT or AI technologies for data collection and analysis, may not seamlessly integrate with electronic health records (EHR) or other digital platforms used within healthcare facilities. This lack of interoperability complicates data management, hinders workflow efficiency, and limits the potential benefits of adopting new technologies.
Economic considerations also play a role in the reluctance to adopt new patient handling technologies. Healthcare budgets are often constrained, particularly in public healthcare systems or facilities serving economically disadvantaged populations. The upfront costs associated with purchasing advanced equipment, coupled with ongoing maintenance expenses and the need for periodic upgrades, can strain financial resources and deter investments unless the return on investment (ROI) is clearly demonstrated.
Opportunities
- Technological Innovations and Smart Devices
- Enhancing Patient Safety and Caregiver Ergonomics
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Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Innovations- Manufacturers in this sector are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials in their product development processes. This focus not only aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints but also meets the growing demand from healthcare providers and consumers for environmentally responsible solutions. One key aspect of sustainability in patient handling devices involves the use of recyclable materials and reduced carbon emissions during manufacturing. Companies are adopting eco-friendly manufacturing processes that minimize waste generation and energy consumption, thereby reducing environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle. This approach not only enhances corporate sustainability profiles but also resonates positively with environmentally conscious consumers and healthcare institutions seeking to align with sustainable procurement practices.
Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainability extends to the design and functionality of patient handling devices themselves. Manufacturers are integrating features that promote energy efficiency, such as battery-powered devices with longer life cycles and quick-charging capabilities. This not only improves device usability and reliability but also reduces operational costs and environmental footprint associated with disposable batteries.
Another significant area of innovation is in the development of ergonomic designs that improve device efficiency while reducing strain on caregivers. Ergonomically designed patient lifts, for example, can enhance maneuverability and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among healthcare providers. By prioritizing user comfort and safety, manufacturers contribute to both the sustainability and effectiveness of patient handling practices in healthcare settings.
Moreover, advancements in smart technologies and IoT integration enable real-time monitoring of device performance and patient data, optimizing resource utilization and enhancing overall healthcare delivery efficiency. These technologies support sustainable healthcare practices by minimizing unnecessary device downtime, optimizing energy consumption, and improving patient outcomes through timely interventions and personalized care.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Patient Handling Device Market include:
- Benmor Medical
- Etac Healthcare
- Stryker Corporation
- Handicare
- Prism Medical
- Linet
- Mangar International, Inc
- Invacare Corporatio
- Guldmann, Inc.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Accessories
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Patient Handling Device Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Increasing Awareness of Patient and Caregiver Safety
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Rising Obesity Rates
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Patient Comfort and Dignity
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- Restraints
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Limited Awareness and Training in Developing Regions
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Budget Constraints in Small and Medium Healthcare Facilities
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Reluctance to Adopt New Technologies
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- Opportunities
- Technological Innovations and Smart Devices
- Enhancing Patient Safety and Caregiver Ergonomics
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Innovations
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Patient Handling Device Market, By Accessories, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Lifting
- Transfer
- Global Patient Handling Device Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Long-Term Care
- Acute & Critical Care
- Fall Prevention
- Mobility Assistance
- Global Patient Handling Device Market, By End User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Home
- Hospital
- Global Patient Handling Device Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Patient Handling Device Market, By Accessories, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
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Benmor Medical
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Etac Healthcare
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Stryker Corporation
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Handicare
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Prism Medical
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Linet
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Mangar International, Inc
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Invacare Corporatio
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Guldmann, Inc.
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- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market