Covid 19 Impact on Patient Lateral Transfer Market Segmentation, Demand , Growth, Trends, Opportunities and Forecast 2026

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market Overview

The Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9–10% over the next five years. The market expansion is fueled by rising demand for home healthcare services, increasing cases of musculoskeletal injuries among caregivers and patients, growing emphasis on safe patient handling practices, and technological advancements in patient transfer devices. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of patient lateral transfer equipment as hospitals sought safer ways to move patients while minimizing caregiver injuries and infection risks. A patient lateral transfer involves moving a patient from one surface to another—such as from a bed to a stretcher or surgical table—using specialized equipment to ensure safety and comfort.

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High Risk of Musculoskeletal Injuries to Caregivers and Patients Drives Market Growth Lateral transfers are among the most frequent patient handling tasks in healthcare settings, but they carry a high risk of injury for both patients and caregivers. The significant physical effort required during manual transfers often leads to musculoskeletal injuries—affecting muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints—among healthcare workers. Patients, too, are susceptible to injuries such as bruises, fractures, and skin tears due to improper handling. To reduce these risks, hospitals are increasingly adopting air-assisted transfer devices, friction-reducing sheets, and roller boards that minimize exertion and improve safety. The implementation of safe patient handling programs has further boosted the adoption of modern lateral transfer solutions across healthcare facilities worldwide.

Rising Use of Patient Lateral Transfer Equipment During Covid-19

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for effective and safe patient handling solutions. With a surge in hospital admissions for patients suffering from respiratory complications and ARDS, prone positioning became a key intervention to improve oxygenation. However, turning patients manually posed a significant risk of injury to caregivers. Patient lateral transfer equipment emerged as an essential tool to safely reposition patients with minimal strain. Hospitals increasingly relied on air-assisted transfer systems and repositioning aids to reduce caregiver workload and infection exposure. This shift not only ensured patient safety but also reinforced the long-term value of advanced handling technologies in critical care environments.

Technological Advancements in Patient Lateral Transfer Equipment

Innovation continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the patient lateral transfer market. Companies are introducing advanced, automated, and ergonomic solutions designed to improve caregiver safety and patient comfort. For example, in June 2022, Wideblue collaborated with SME Science to Business and the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) to develop a novel lightweight and heated patient transfer device funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research. Similarly, Able Innovations launched its ALTA Platform™, which enables single-caregiver automated patient transfers at the press of a button, significantly reducing physical strain. Such technological progress is expected to drive adoption, especially in hospitals and long-term care facilities seeking efficient transfer solutions.

Strategic Developments Strengthening Market Presence

Leading players in the global patient lateral transfer market are pursuing both organic and inorganic growth strategies, including acquisitions and product innovations, to strengthen their market positions. In September 2021, Agiliti, Inc. acquired Sizewise Rentals, LLC to enhance its specialty equipment and patient handling portfolio. In December 2020, Arjo expanded its capabilities by acquiring AirPal, a U.S.-based specialist in air-assisted lateral transfer solutions. Similarly, Etac’s 2019 acquisition of HoverTech positioned it as a leading provider of air-assisted patient handling technologies in the U.S. These strategic initiatives are helping companies expand their global reach and cater to increasing demand from healthcare providers focused on safe and efficient patient transfer systems.

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Competitive Landscape

The patient lateral transfer market is characterized by strong competition among key players such as Arjo, Stryker, Hillrom/Baxter, McAuley Medical/Pelstar, Etac, Sizewise, Samarit Medical, AliMed, Haines Medical Australia, and Blue Chip Medical. These companies are investing in R&D to develop lightweight, durable, and automated transfer devices that enhance operational efficiency and user safety. The growing emphasis on reducing work-related musculoskeletal injuries, combined with government guidelines promoting safe patient handling, will continue to propel market growth in the coming years.

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