Medicar specialises in planned adult stretcher transport for hospital journeys, care home transfers, discharge and longer-distance moves.
Stretcher transport is more than placing equipment in a vehicle. The passenger's position, transfer method, access route, comfort, crew requirements and handover all need to be understood in advance.
Some equipment can convert from stretcher to a seated configuration while the passenger remains supported, which may assist with particular access routes when assessed as suitable. It is not a universal solution and must match the passenger and environment.
Medicar reviews doorways, steps, corridors, lifts and the space available at both ends. Photographs or measurements may be requested for unusual or restricted access.
For someone who is bedbound or needs to travel lying down, we consider support and transfer arrangements throughout the journey. Planned transport can include medical appointments, care home moves and suitable special occasions as well as hospital discharge.
Access and equipment are considered together. If the proposed plan is not suitable, Medicar will explain what further information or alternative arrangement is needed.
Stretcher transport assessment
An accurate assessment protects the passenger, staff and property and reduces the risk of delay on the day.
- Why a stretcher position is required
- The passenger's approximate height and weight
- Transfer method at collection and destination
- Door, corridor, stair and lift access
- Journey duration and comfort considerations
- Any clinical escort or additional support
Equipment chosen after review
Medicar uses specialist transport equipment and selects what is appropriate after reviewing the passenger and the route. Equipment descriptions do not replace an individual assessment.
If a journey is bariatric, involves stairs or presents unusual manual-handling risks, additional planning and different resources may be required.
Frequently asked questions
Can a passenger remain on the stretcher throughout the journey?
Yes, where that is the assessed transport plan. The collection and destination transfer arrangements must also be suitable.
Can stretcher equipment fit through narrow access?
Some equipment offers different configurations, but suitability depends on the passenger and the exact route. Measurements or photographs may be required.
Do you carry people upstairs or downstairs?
Stairs and other manual-handling challenges must be assessed individually. A booking is confirmed only when a suitable plan, equipment and staffing are available.
Is there a maximum passenger weight?
Capacity depends on the specific equipment, vehicle, access and crew plan. Provide accurate information so Medicar can confirm whether the journey is suitable.
Can you provide transport for someone who is bedbound?
A suitable planned journey can be assessed using specialist stretcher transport. Tell us about the passenger's transport position, care and transfer requirements, access at both ends and the purpose of the journey.