Global Patient Handling Equipment Market - 2025-2033

The Global Patient Handling Equipment Market reached US$ 15.55 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 26.76 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period 2025-2033.

Patient Handling Equipment (PHE) refers to a range of assistive equipment designed to help patients move, transfer, and reposition safely in healthcare environments. This technology is essential for increasing patient mobility, guaranteeing safety during transfers, and lowering the risk of damage to both patients and healthcare providers. Patient handling equipment is essential in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and home care.

The use of patient-handling devices has several benefits. It improves the quality of care by ensuring that patients are mobilized safely and pleasantly. It also helps to reduce immobility-related problems including pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis. This device helps patients maintain their functional status and independence by allowing for safe transfers and movement. Furthermore, it contributes to a safer work environment for healthcare personnel by decreasing the physical demands connected with manual patient-handling work.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Increasing demand for patient-handling equipment

The increasing demand for patient-handling equipment is expected to be a significant factor in the growth of the global patient-handling equipment market. The demand for patient-handling equipment is increasing owing to the increasing number of patients, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, technological advancements, and recent launches and approvals.

The increasing frequency of chronic diseases across the globe has a major effect on the growing demand for patient-handling equipment. Obesity, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are all growing more widespread as the population ages. For instance, according to the National Institute of Health, in 2023, the United States is expected to see 1,958,310 new cancer cases. Prostate cancer incidence climbed by 3% every year from 2014 to 2019, after two decades of reduction, resulting in an additional 99,000 new cases. The annual cancer incidence rate is 440.5 per 100,000 men and women (based on cases from 2017 to 2021). In 2024, a projected 14,910 children and adolescents between the ages of 0 and 19 will be diagnosed with cancer. These medical conditions frequently result in movement limitations, requiring the usage of specialized devices to assist patients in their daily activities and healthcare settings. The rising number of chronic disease cases increases the number of patients who need to be admitted to the hospital and the demand for patient-handling equipment rises.

Technological developments that improve patient safety, efficiency, and effectiveness are driving the growing need for patient-handling equipment. Innovations in this field are changing how healthcare providers manage patient mobility, resulting in better outcomes for both patients and caregivers. Advanced technology such as powered lifts, hospital beds, automated transfer devices, and ergonomic designs are becoming indispensable tools in modern healthcare settings, solving the difficulties associated with physical handling.

For instance, in June 2023 Baxter International launched the Hillrom Progressa+ ICU bed in the United States. The bed includes innovative technologies and features that make it easier for nurses to care for patients and help them recover. The Progressa+ is intended for critical care settings where patient requirements are high and clinical staff are becoming limited. The bed addresses issues such as minimizing strain on nursing resources, lowering the danger of pressure injuries, and simplifying patient posture. The Hillrom Progressa+ is a "true ICU bed" that is intended to make care easier for ICU teams. Due to technological advancements, patient safety and efficiency are improved, and the demand for patient-handling equipment is increasing which drives the global patient-handling equipment market.

High costs of advanced patient handling equipment

Factors such as the high costs of advanced patient-handling equipment are expected to hamper the global patient-handling equipment market. One of the primary issues is the significant price burden involved with advanced patient-handling equipment financial barriers may inhibit healthcare facilities, particularly those in developing countries, from investing in essential patient-handling equipment. The original purchase price, as well as continuous maintenance and training costs, add to the overall financial burden on healthcare providers. As a result, many hospitals may adopt less effective manual handling procedures, increasing the risk of damage to both patients and caregivers.

For instance, manual patient lifts can cost between $500 and $2,000, while powered lifts may range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more depending on their features. These advanced systems often come with installation costs, leading to a total price range of $5,000 to $20,000. Specialized hospital beds with adjustable features can cost anywhere from $1,000 to over $10,000, depending on their complexity and functionality. As a result of higher prices, many hospitals may adopt less effective manual handling procedures, increasing the risk of damage to both patients and caregivers. So, the high costs of advanced patient-handling equipment may inhibit people from buying patient-handling equipment and hamper the market.

Segment Analysis

The global patient handling equipment market is segmented based on Patient Transfer Devices, Medical Beds, Mobility Devices, End-User, And Region.

Medical Beds segment is expected to dominate the global patient-handling equipment market share

The Medical Beds segment is anticipated to dominate the global patient handling equipment market owing to comfort, safety, and adaptability to meet the diverse needs of patients across various medical conditions and technological advancements. As healthcare systems evolve, the need for modern hospital beds with new features increases, resulting in significant market growth. The increasing number of healthcare facilities globally contributes to the demand for hospital beds. As new hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers develop, there will be an increased need for patient beds. This expansion indicates a robust market driven by both demand and innovation.

Technological advancements play a crucial role in propelling the beds market forward. Manufacturers are increasingly incorporating smart technologies into hospital beds, such as remote adjustments and integrated health monitoring systems. These technologies not only improve patient outcomes but also improve hospital operations by allowing healthcare providers to better monitor patients without the need for conventional medical examinations.

For instance, in April 2023, Sleep Number Corporation launched its next-generation Sleep Number smart beds and Lifestyle Furniture, which are meant to help consumers achieve optimal rest and reach their full potential at every stage of life. The next-generation smart beds utilize embedded, research-grade sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) to learn the unique biometrics and sleep patterns of each user. As healthcare facilities continue to prioritize safety and comfort, the demand for medical beds increases and remains the most dominant segment in the global patient-handling equipment market.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the global patient handling equipment market share

North America will likely account for a significant share of the global patient handling equipment market, owing to advanced healthcare infrastructure and substantial healthcare expenditures, rising number of chronic diseases, technological advancements, and recent launches and approvals. The region, notably the United States, has a well-developed healthcare system with a large number of hospitals and medical institutions. This solid infrastructure generates a steady demand for various forms of patient-handling equipment, such as hospital beds, and wheelchairs, which are critical for providing quality patient care.

The rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease is a major contributor to North America's dominant position. These health conditions frequently necessitate extended hospitalizations and specialized care, increasing the demand for innovative patient-handling equipment designed to improve patient comfort and safety. For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer diagnoses are predicted to exceed 22 million by 2023 and in the case of breast cancer, 1 in 12 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

Furthermore, advancements in technology influence the hospital furniture environment in North America. The use of smart technologies in hospital beds and other patient-handling equipment is becoming more widespread. These advances not only improve patient care but also increase operational efficiency in healthcare facilities. For instance, in February 2024, Artisight, Inc., a Smart Hospital Platform utilizing artificial intelligence, announced a systemwide expansion of its collaboration with WellSpan Health. The new program will extend remote nursing, observation, and AI services to over 1,000 beds across the WellSpan Health System. So, technological advancements, the rising number of chronic diseases, and the increasing number of hospitals increase the number of patients which drives the patient-handling equipment market in this region.

Asia Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the global patient-handling equipment market

The Asia Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market for patient handling equipment, owing to a combination of demographic trends, increased healthcare investment, recent launches, technological advancements, and a rising number of chronic diseases. Significant investments in healthcare infrastructure across the Asia Pacific are enhancing the region's ability to deliver high-quality medical treatment. Governments and the private sector are increasingly funding the construction of new hospitals and clinics outfitted with cutting-edge furniture aimed at enhancing patient outcomes. This trend is particularly visible in countries where healthcare systems are quickly developing, leading to a rise in demand for patient-handling equipment that combines innovative technology while meeting stringent safety standards.

For instance, in November 2024, Apollo Hospitals planned to invest ₹1,625 crore in expanding its healthcare facilities in Mumbai and Lucknow. The project aims to build 3,500 beds in 11 locations across India by fiscal year 2026, with a total investment of approximately ₹6,100 crores. The expansion underscores Apollo's dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and quality in crucial urban regions. The increasing investments increase the number of hospitals and healthcare centers which increases the number of patients and results in the increasing demand for patient-handling equipment.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the global patient handling equipment market include Stryker, Invacare Holdings Corporation, Arjo, STERIS, Medline Industries, LP, HILLROM & WELCH ALLYN, Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare Ltd, GF Health Products, Inc., NAUSICAA MEDICAL, Sunrise Medical among others.

Emerging Players

Acme Enterprises, Ramara Medical Solutions, and Bio-Care Systems among others

Key Developments

• In August 2024, Hong Kong-based health tech start-up Libpet is into designing smart robot wheelchairs not just for the physically challenged but for everyone. Through innovation, its inclusive device for mobility and productivity helps minimize physical effort, making life so much easier.

Why Purchase the Report?

• Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials, product pipelines, and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
• Product Performance & Market Positioning: Analyzes product performance, market positioning, and growth potential to optimize strategies.
• Real-World Evidence: Integrates patient feedback and data into product development for improved outcomes.
• Physician Preferences & Health System Impact: Examines healthcare provider behaviors and the impact of health system mergers on adoption strategies.
• Market Updates & Industry Changes: Covers recent regulatory changes, new policies, and emerging technologies.
• Competitive Strategies: Analyzes competitor strategies, market share, and emerging players.
• Pricing & Market Access: Reviews pricing models, reimbursement trends, and market access strategies.
• Market Entry & Expansion: Identifies optimal strategies for entering new markets and partnerships.
• Regional Growth & Investment: Highlights high-growth regions and investment opportunities.
• Supply Chain Optimization: Assesses supply chain risks and distribution strategies for efficient product delivery.
• Sustainability & Regulatory Impact: Focuses on eco-friendly practices and evolving regulations in healthcare.
• Post-market Surveillance: Uses post-market data to enhance product safety and access.
• Pharmacoeconomics & Value-Based Pricing: Analyzes the shift to value-based pricing and data-driven decision-making in R&D.

The global patient handling equipment market report delivers a detailed analysis with 80+ key tables, more than 50 visually impactful figures, and 200 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers: Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotech Companies, Contract Manufacturers, Distributors, Hospitals.
• Regulatory & Policy: Compliance Officers, Government, Health Economists, Market Access Specialists.
• Technology & Innovation: AI/Robotics Providers, R&D Professionals, Clinical Trial Managers, Pharmacovigilance Experts.
• Investors: Healthcare Investors, Venture Fund Investors, Pharma Marketing & Sales.
• Consulting & Advisory: Healthcare Consultants, Industry Associations, Analysts.
• Supply Chain: Distribution and Supply Chain Managers.
• Consumers & Advocacy: Patients, Advocacy Groups, Insurance Companies.
• Academic & Research: Academic Institutions.