Market Size

The Europe patient handling equipment market reached US$ 8.32 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 21.14 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 9.8 % during the forecast period 2025-2033.

Patient handling equipment is designed and manufactured to assist caregivers or nurses in transporting patients from one location to another. Transfers are far safer when performed using this sort of equipment, which protects patients and staff from any potential injury caused by faulty manual handling. To minimize injuries and produce efficient manual handling without causing any harm, it's essential to utilize suitable methods and tools.

 

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Increasing Aging Population and Disabilities from Non-Communicable Diseases

Europe is experiencing one of the fastest aging demographics globally. According to Eurostat, over 20% of the EU population is aged 65 and above, and this percentage is projected to continue rising in the coming decades. The population aged 60 and older is rapidly growing in the WHO European Region. In 2021, there were 215 million; by 2030, it is projected to be 247 million, and by 2050, over 300 million.

The rise of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory disorders, is another significant factor influencing the patient handling equipment market. NCDs are prevalent in older populations and contribute to increased morbidity and disability. As per European Commission data in December 2023, more than one-third (36.1 %) of people in the EU reported having a long-standing (chronic) health problem in 2022, thus making a significant contribution to the patient handling equipment market in Europe.

High Cost of Devices

The high cost of these devices and equipment. Patient handling equipment often involves advanced technology, ergonomic designs, and safety features, which contribute to their higher prices. The high cost of patient handling equipment is a significant restraint in the European market, limiting the adoption and accessibility of these essential devices. Several factors contribute to the high costs, including advanced technology, quality and compliance standards, durability requirements, limited competition, and customization needs.

The high costs can strain the budgets of healthcare facilities, particularly in public healthcare systems where funding is limited. This financial pressure may lead to compromises in the quality of equipment purchased or a delay in necessary upgrades.

Ankle movement device PS-K costs around $322.15, lift, transfer, mobility device Rifton TRAM costs around $5083.59. The average cost of a new wheelchair is between $ 571.19 and $1713.57, and a foldable wheelchair costs around $1936.34.

Additionally, high equipment costs can limit access to essential patient handling devices, particularly in smaller or underfunded healthcare facilities, negatively impacting patient care. Patient handling equipment, especially advanced motorized devices and specialized systems, can be expensive to procure and maintain.

Market Segment Analysis

The Europe patient handling equipment market is segmented based on product, application, and end-user.

Product:

The medical beds segment in the product is expected to dominate the Europe patient handling equipment market share

The growing demand for specialized beds that enhance patient care and safety in various healthcare settings. This segment encompasses various types of medical beds, including acute care beds, long-term care beds, and others.

The rising number of elderly individuals in Europe is a primary driver for the medical beds segment. Older adults often require specialized care, leading to increased demand for medical beds that cater to their needs. The growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, necessitates the use of medical beds in both acute and long-term care settings. Technological advancements in bed design, such as the integration of smart technology for monitoring patient health and comfort, are enhancing the functionality of medical beds.

Moreover, key players in the industry product launching products and key developments in the medical beds that would propel this segment's growth in the market. For instance, in December 2023, German Bionic launched the Apogee exoskeleton with robotic motors. This powered wearable helps nurses and other healthcare workers lift and move heavy patients with greater ease, less strain, and improved stamina.

Similarly, in May 2022, Invacare Corporation announced the U.S. introduction of its Birdie Evo XPLUS, an innovative patient lift solution for the post-acute care setting. With its sleek and modern design, the Birdie Evo XPLUS provides innovative technology that helps maximize comfort and security when lifting or transferring a patient to or from a bed, chair, or floor. With strong reception in Europe, the U.S. launch of the Birdie Evo XPLUS patient lift represents a major step forward in expanding the reach of one of Invacare’s most well-established offerings.

Major Players

The major players in the Europe patient handling equipment market include Arjo, OpeMed (United Care) Ltd., VENDLET (Direct Healthcare Group), V. Guldmann A/S, Etac AB, Savaria, Invacare Corporation, Baxter (Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc.), and Stryker, among others.

Key Developments

  • In October 2022, Etac introduced a new full-length variant of the Molift RgoSling Repositioning Sheet that helps to cover the full length of the patient’s body. It provides high-level support to transfer patients within and around the bed, and helps in repositioning, turning side-lying, and rolling the user sideways.
  • In March 2022, Sage launched new Multi-Position MATS to help OR nurses safely tilt and transfer patients. Innovative mobile air transfer system brings safe patient handling practices to the operating room.
Metrics Details
CAGR 9.8%
Market Size Available for Years 2022-2033
Estimation Forecast Period 2025-2033
Revenue Units Value (US$ Bn) 
Segments Covered Product Wheelchairs & Scooters, Medical Beds, Mechanical Lifting & Transfer Equipment, Ambulatory Aids Devices, Bathroom Safety Equipment, Others
Application Acute & Critical Care, Long Term Care, Mobility Assistance, Fall Prevention, Others
End-User Hospitals, Home Care Settings, Elderly Care Facilities, Others

 

Why Purchase the Report?

  • Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials and product pipelines and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
  • Product Performance & Market Positioning: Analyze 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: This covers recent regulatory changes, new policies, and emerging technologies.
  • Competitive Strategies: Analyze 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 Europe patient handling equipment market report delivers a detailed analysis with 39  key tables, more than 32 visually impactful figures, and 136 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.
  • Application & 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.