Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In 2020, Arjo expanded its presence in the patient handling and mobility market through the acquisition of Airpal, a U.S.-based company specializing in patient transfer solutions. This strategic move significantly strengthened Arjo’s market position, enhancing its portfolio of lateral transfer products and reinforcing its commitment to improving patient and caregiver safety across healthcare facilities.

• In 2020, Handicare expanded its operational footprint by opening a new stairlift manufacturing facility in the United States. The establishment of this facility has significantly reduced lead times, giving Handicare a stronger competitive advantage in the U.S. market. Strategic Divestment to Focus on Core Business. Additionally, as part of its global strategic initiatives, Handicare divested its patient-handling product line outside the United States to Direct Healthcare Group in 2020, allowing the company to sharpen its focus on core business segments and strengthen its market position.

In this report, the Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market has been segmented by Product, Usage, End User and Geography.

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market, Segmentation by Product

The Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market has been segmented by Product into Air-Assisted Lateral Transfer Mattresses, Regular Mattresses, Split-Leg Mattresses, Half Mattresses, Sliding Sheets, and Accessories.

Air-Assisted Lateral Transfer Mattresses
Air-assisted lateral transfer mattresses lead the global patient lateral transfer market, holding an estimated 42% share. These devices use air-flow technology to minimize friction and physical effort during patient transfers. They are widely adopted in hospitals and critical care units to enhance safety, reduce musculoskeletal injuries among caregivers, and improve patient comfort. As the healthcare industry prioritizes ergonomics and injury prevention, the demand for air-assisted systems continues to grow significantly.

Regular and Half Mattresses
Regular mattresses account for approximately 18% of the market and are often used in healthcare environments where cost considerations outweigh the need for high-end transfer equipment. These include basic foam models or standard low-friction designs. Half mattresses, making up about 10%, are used for partial body repositioning and are preferred for certain clinical scenarios where full-mattress solutions are unnecessary. Both products serve as affordable alternatives in facilities with limited budgets.

Split-Leg Mattresses
Split-leg mattresses hold a market share of around 12%, providing enhanced flexibility for patient transfers involving surgical preparation or therapeutic needs. These products are increasingly utilized in rehabilitation units and specialized clinical settings due to their segmented design, which allows better maneuverability and support. Their ergonomic benefits for both patients and caregivers are driving steady adoption across the healthcare landscape.

Sliding Sheets and Accessories
Sliding sheets and related accessories contribute about 18% to the market. These products offer simple, manual transfer solutions and are particularly useful in home care and assisted living facilities. Sliding sheets reduce resistance during lateral movements, while accessories like transfer boards and belts improve functionality and ease of use. Due to their versatility and low cost, these tools are widely adopted in both professional and personal care settings.

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market, Segmentation by Usage

The Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market has been segmented by Usage into Single Patient Use, and Reusable.

Single Patient Use
Single patient use products dominate the global patient lateral transfer market, capturing about 58% of the overall share. These devices are specifically intended for one-time use, reducing the risk of infection transmission between patients. Healthcare providers increasingly favor single-use systems in critical care units, isolation wards, and operating rooms due to their high compliance with infection control standards. The rising burden of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and the demand for streamlined workflows are accelerating the shift toward disposable patient transfer solutions.

Reusable Products
Reusable products represent approximately 42% of the market and are valued for their cost-efficiency and durability. These devices are designed for multiple uses following thorough cleaning and disinfection protocols. Commonly adopted in settings with tight budget constraints, such as community hospitals and nursing homes, reusable systems offer long-term value. However, concerns around sanitation, especially in high-risk areas, and the added time and labor involved in reprocessing may hinder their widespread adoption.

Shifting Usage Patterns
The post-COVID era has amplified the focus on infection prevention, prompting many healthcare institutions to transition from reusable to single-use patient transfer solutions. While this trend is prevalent in developed economies, resource-limited regions continue to prefer reusable alternatives due to affordability. A new wave of hybrid solutions—merging reusable bases with disposable layers—is also emerging, offering a viable option that balances safety, cost, and sustainability. As global healthcare standards evolve, this segmentation is expected to become increasingly nuanced.

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market, Segmentation by End User

The Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market has been segmented by End User into Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and Others.

Hospitals
Hospitals lead the global patient lateral transfer market, accounting for around 64% of the total share. This leadership stems from the substantial patient volumes they handle daily, along with the complexity of medical procedures that require frequent repositioning and transfers. Hospitals prioritize patient and caregiver safety, investing heavily in advanced transfer technologies such as air-assisted devices and ergonomic reusable systems. Furthermore, compliance with safety regulations and infection control standards strengthens their reliance on efficient transfer solutions.

Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)
Ambulatory surgical centers contribute approximately 21% to the global market. With the growing preference for outpatient procedures, ASCs require fast, reliable, and hygienic patient transfer options that align with tight operational schedules. These facilities typically use compact and easy-to-disinfect equipment to streamline surgical throughput and reduce manual handling risks. As healthcare systems shift toward minimally invasive and day-care treatments, this segment is positioned for continued expansion.

Others (Home Healthcare, Nursing Homes, Rehabilitation Centers)
Comprising nearly 15% of the market, this category includes long-term care centers, home healthcare providers, and rehabilitation facilities. The rising elderly population and increasing preference for at-home medical care are key drivers of this segment. Caregivers in these environments benefit from portable and easy-to-use patient transfer tools that ensure safety without compromising comfort. The growing demand for independent living support and remote healthcare services is expected to enhance the adoption of lateral transfer aids in these settings.

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America
North America leads the global patient lateral transfer market, holding a substantial 36% share. The region’s robust healthcare infrastructure, combined with early adoption of advanced medical technologies, plays a key role in this dominance. The United States, as the largest contributor, benefits from high healthcare spending and a strong presence of key industry players. The growing incidence of chronic illnesses and the rising number of surgical interventions further support market expansion across North America.

Europe
Europe captures nearly 28% of the global market, driven by sophisticated healthcare systems and a strong emphasis on worker safety. Leading countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are investing heavily in medical innovation and compliance with strict patient handling regulations. The heightened awareness of healthcare worker injuries and proactive patient mobility policies continue to stimulate demand for lateral transfer devices in this region.

Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the most rapid growth in the coming years, with a forecasted CAGR exceeding 9%. Key growth drivers include expanding healthcare infrastructure, increasing public and private healthcare expenditure, and a growing elderly population. Countries like China and India are at the forefront of this surge, benefiting from large patient volumes and improving healthcare accessibility. Rising awareness and government-supported health initiatives are further propelling the regional market.

Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa currently contributes about 8% to the global patient lateral transfer market. The region is experiencing gradual growth, supported by the modernization of healthcare systems and increased funding for hospital infrastructure. Nations such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa are driving regional expansion through targeted healthcare development programs. However, disparities in technological access and economic hurdles remain as growth-limiting factors in certain areas.

Latin America
Latin America holds around 6% of the market share, with emerging contributions from Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. The market is gaining traction due to increasing healthcare awareness, better infrastructure, and investments in patient safety technologies. While economic challenges and healthcare access disparities continue to pose barriers, ongoing government initiatives and reforms are laying the groundwork for long-term market growth across the region.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers:

• Growing focus on patient safety
• Increasing prevalence of obesity
• Rising geriatric population globally
• Technological advancements in transfer devices

• Healthcare infrastructure development- The global patient lateral transfer market is rapidly expanding due to the rising demand for safe, efficient, and ergonomic patient handling solutions. Lateral transfer devices, which include air-assisted lateral transfer mattresses, slide sheets, and transfer boards, are essential tools in minimizing the risk of injury to both patients and healthcare workers during transfers. These devices help address the growing concern over musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare professionals that result from manual patient handling. In response to this, healthcare facilities are increasingly adopting lateral transfer solutions to ensure safety.

  Technological advancements are also playing a significant role in the market's growth. The development of motorized and automated transfer devices is pushing the boundaries of innovation, making patient transfers even more efficient. In addition, the heightened focus on patient safety, alongside the implementation of stringent regulations and guidelines around manual handling in healthcare settings, is further fueling the demand for more advanced lateral transfer solutions.

  Healthcare infrastructure development is another key factor driving market expansion. Growing investments in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in emerging economies, are leading to the establishment of new hospitals and healthcare centers, all of which require modern patient handling solutions. Government funding and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services, combined with increasing healthcare expenditures, are further propelling market growth. As the healthcare sector adopts advanced technologies and more private healthcare providers enter the market, the demand for efficient and safe patient transfer solutions will continue to rise. With this continued development in healthcare infrastructure, the patient lateral transfer market is expected to maintain steady growth, ensuring enhanced patient care and worker safety across the globe.

Restraints:

• High cost of equipment
• Lack of awareness among professionals
• Limited reimbursement policies
• Equipment maintenance challenges

• Complexity of device usage- The global patient lateral transfer market has seen remarkable growth, driven by a combination of factors including the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses, an aging population, and the growing emphasis on enhancing patient safety and comfort during transfers. Essential devices in this market, such as slide sheets, air-assisted transfer devices, and transfer boards, play a vital role in reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among healthcare workers. However, the complexity of using these devices presents challenges that must be addressed for broader adoption.
  
  One significant obstacle in the adoption of patient lateral transfer devices is the complexity involved in their usage. Proper training is essential for healthcare professionals to effectively use these devices while ensuring patient safety and minimizing the risk of injuries. For example, air-assisted transfer devices, although highly effective, require precise handling and proper inflation techniques. If misused or incorrectly handled, these devices can cause patient discomfort or even injury, which diminishes their intended benefits.
  
  In addition, integrating these devices into the fast-paced environment of healthcare settings presents its own set of challenges. Healthcare professionals often find it difficult to incorporate new equipment into their established routines, which may lead to resistance in consistently using these devices. This highlights the importance of designing user-friendly devices and implementing comprehensive training programs to ensure that healthcare workers can use the devices efficiently. Only with proper integration and training can the full potential of patient lateral transfer devices be realized, ultimately improving patient care and safety.

Opportunities:

• Emerging markets expansion
• Innovations in transfer technologies
• Government initiatives and funding
• Training programs for caregivers

• Integration with smart healthcare systems- The global patient lateral transfer market is experiencing a significant surge in demand, largely due to the increasing adoption of smart healthcare systems. These systems are transforming patient care by incorporating advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), and big data analytics to enhance operational efficiency and improve patient outcomes. When patient transfer devices are integrated with these smart healthcare systems, they enable seamless communication between the devices and hospital networks, allowing for real-time monitoring of patient movements, vital signs, and other critical data. As a result, healthcare providers are equipped to make more informed decisions, streamline workflows, and ultimately offer higher quality care.
  
  Integrating patient lateral transfer systems with smart healthcare platforms enables powerful predictive analytics and proactive interventions. By analyzing data patterns and historical trends, these systems can anticipate transfer needs, reduce the risk of adverse events like falls or pressure ulcers, and optimize the allocation of healthcare resources. In addition, the interoperability with electronic health records (EHRs) ensures the continuity of care, allowing healthcare teams to communicate more effectively. This leads to better coordination, smoother workflows, and stronger collaboration among healthcare professionals. Overall, the integration of patient lateral transfer devices with smart healthcare systems is reshaping the future of healthcare, promoting improved safety, operational efficiency, and better patient outcomes across

Key players in Global Patient Lateral Transfer Market include:

• Stryker Corporation
• Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc
• Arjo
• Getinge AB
• HoverTech International
• EZ Way, Inc
• Airpal, Inc
• Samarit Medical AG
• Handicare Group AB
• Patient Positioning Systems LLC

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