The North America hospital stretchers market, valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2023, is set for significant expansion. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for technologically advanced stretchers, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and the increasing focus on patient safety and comfort. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.37% during the forecast period, with the value rising to USD 4.6 billion by 2032.

Hospital stretchers are crucial for patient transport, especially in emergency and procedural settings, making them indispensable in healthcare facilities. The need for smart, motorized, and specialty stretchers is driving the market forward, particularly as healthcare providers seek solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce staff fatigue, and improve patient outcomes.

Key Drivers of Growth

Several factors are driving the rapid growth of the hospital stretchers market in North America:

• Technological Advancements: The development of electric and motorized stretchers is revolutionizing hospital environments. These stretchers are equipped with features such as automated height adjustments, advanced braking systems, and even built-in patient monitoring capabilities. These innovations improve the overall workflow efficiency in hospitals and reduce the physical strain on healthcare workers, leading to fewer workplace injuries and better patient handling.
• Aging Population and Chronic Disease Prevalence: North America’s aging population is one of the key factors contributing to the rising demand for hospital stretchers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to double by 2050, creating a high demand for long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals. Additionally, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity requires frequent patient monitoring and movement within healthcare facilities, further fueling the need for specialized, durable stretchers.
• Increased Focus on Patient Comfort and Safety: Hospitals and healthcare providers are focusing more on patient-centric care, leading to a growing demand for stretchers that enhance patient comfort. Features like pressure-relief mattresses, adjustable backrests, and extra cushioning are becoming standard in high-end models. Furthermore, infection control mechanisms, such as antimicrobial coatings on stretchers, are gaining prominence due to the rise in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
• Rise in Emergency Services and Surgeries: The increasing number of surgeries and emergency services across North America has led to a surge in demand for emergency and procedural stretchers. Hospitals are looking for multi-functional stretchers that can be easily maneuvered, used in a variety of surgical procedures, and quickly transported in emergency situations.

Trending Developments in the Market

1. Smart Stretchers: The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) and sensor technology in stretchers is a game-changer. These smart stretchers can monitor patient vitals during transport, sending real-time data to healthcare professionals. For example, built-in systems can measure heart rate, oxygen levels, and even alert hospital staff in the event of a medical emergency during transport, enabling quicker interventions.
2. Electric and Motorized Stretchers: As hospital environments become busier and more complex, there is an increasing shift towards motorized stretchers. These devices are equipped with features such as automated steering, brake assist systems, and hydraulic lifting capabilities, significantly reducing manual labor and improving efficiency in patient transfer. Motorized stretchers are also seen as safer for both patients and staff, as they reduce the risk of accidental drops or mishandling.
3. Bariatric Stretchers: With the rise in obesity rates in North America, the demand for bariatric stretchers—designed to accommodate larger patients—has increased. These stretchers come with wider frames, higher weight capacities, and extra reinforcement to ensure patient comfort and safety. The growing trend of bariatric surgeries and treatments is further boosting the demand for these specialized stretchers.

Market Segmentation

To better understand the market, it’s crucial to look at how it’s segmented by product type, application, and end-use.

• By Product Type:
  • Manual Stretchers: Although manual stretchers remain popular due to their affordability and versatility, they are gradually being replaced by electric models in high-end facilities. However, they remain a cost-effective solution for smaller clinics and healthcare providers.
  • Motorized/Electric Stretchers: As healthcare facilities focus more on automation and efficiency, motorized stretchers are gaining traction. These stretchers are favored for their ease of use and advanced safety features, making them ideal for intensive care and emergency departments.
  • Specialty Stretchers: Designed for specific medical conditions, specialty stretchers—including bariatric, trauma, and surgical stretchers—are growing in demand as hospitals cater to diverse patient needs.
• By Application:
  • Emergency and Transport Stretchers: These are in high demand due to the increasing number of emergency cases and trauma care requirements in hospitals. Collapsible and lightweight stretchers are trending, allowing for easier mobility in high-stress situations.
  • Procedural Stretchers: Used in operating rooms and surgical suites, these stretchers are designed for precision and comfort. They often feature height adjustment capabilities, removable side rails, and attachment points for surgical instruments.
  • Bariatric Stretchers: As mentioned, the growing prevalence of obesity in North America is driving demand for reinforced stretchers with higher weight capacities and expanded dimensions.
• By End-Use:
  • Hospitals: Hospitals remain the largest end-user segment for stretchers, with the constant influx of patients requiring safe, reliable transport solutions.
  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs): ASCs are rapidly adopting advanced stretchers, given the rise in outpatient surgeries. These centers require versatile, durable stretchers that can handle a wide range of procedures.
  • Clinics and Long-term Care Facilities: Smaller healthcare providers, such as specialty clinics and rehabilitation centers, are increasingly adopting cost-efficient, easy-to-use stretchers.

Regional Insights

The North American market is primarily driven by the United States, followed closely by Canada.

• United States: The U.S. dominates the hospital stretchers market due to its high healthcare expenditure, advanced medical infrastructure, and large patient base. There is also a strong focus on technology adoption in the U.S. healthcare system, with hospitals leading the way in implementing smart and electric stretchers.
• Canada: Although smaller in comparison, the Canadian market is growing steadily, driven by government initiatives to modernize healthcare facilities and the increasing demand for high-quality medical equipment. The country’s focus on improving healthcare accessibility in remote regions is also leading to higher demand for lightweight, portable stretchers.

Competitive Landscape

The North America hospital stretchers market is highly competitive, with several key players contributing to innovation and growth. Some of the leading companies include:

• Stryker Corporation: A global leader in medical technology, Stryker is known for its wide range of innovative stretchers, including motorized and smart options that focus on patient safety and healthcare efficiency.
• Invacare Corporation: Invacare specializes in home healthcare solutions and bariatric stretchers, focusing on creating patient-centric products that enhance comfort and ease of use.
• LINET Group SE: This company is a key player in the hospital stretchers market, focusing on cutting-edge technologies like integrated patient monitoring systems, helping healthcare providers optimize patient care during transport.

Other prominent players in the market include Carl Bennet AB (Arjohuntleigh AB), Medline Industries Inc., Joerns Healthcare LLC, Mac Medical Inc., and TransMotion Medical Inc. These companies are investing in research and development, strategic partnerships, and product innovations to maintain their competitive edge.

Trending Topics in the Hospital Stretchers Market

1. Sustainability in Design: The growing trend of developing eco-friendly hospital equipment is now impacting the stretchers market. Manufacturers are using recyclable materials, energy-efficient production methods, and even sustainable packaging to reduce the environmental impact of hospital stretchers.
2. Artificial Intelligence Integration: AI-powered stretchers are the next big thing. In addition to monitoring patient vitals, AI could help predict and optimize movement routes, improving hospital logistics and emergency response times.
3. Telemedicine and Remote Patient Monitoring: As telemedicine continues to gain popularity, telemedicine-ready stretchers equipped with video communication systems and monitoring equipment are becoming more prevalent. These stretchers enable doctors to interact with patients in real time during transport, ensuring timely and effective care.

Future Market Outlook

Looking ahead, the North America hospital stretchers market is expected to continue expanding, driven by advancements in technology, the aging population, and increased healthcare investments. The demand for smart, motorized, and specialty stretchers will rise, with hospitals focusing on improving patient safety and operational efficiency.

The growing focus on sustainability and AI integration will further shape the future of hospital stretchers, creating opportunities for innovation and market expansion. Manufacturers must continue to invest in research and development, adapt to emerging trends, and maintain competitive pricing to capitalize on these growth opportunities.