What is stretcher transport?

Stretcher (gurney) transport moves riders who cannot sit safely for the trip, such as post-surgical patients, hospice patients or people with certain fractures or pressure injuries, but who do not need medical monitoring en route. The vehicle is a stretcher van with a locking cot mount, and the crew is usually two people trained to lift and secure the rider. Some states license stretcher vans separately from wheelchair vans; others treat them as basic life support ambulances and regulate them accordingly.

Why stretcher transport matters for NEMT

Stretcher trips pay the highest rates in NEMT and face the least competition, but the regulatory bar is higher: check whether your state requires an ambulance license, EMT-level staff or specific vehicle specifications before investing. Hospital discharge and hospice are the core referral sources. Read what is a gurney for equipment basics.