An In-Depth Guide to Folding Stretcher With Wheels Price: Standards, Grades, and Performance

Types of Folding Stretchers with Wheels

A folding stretcher with wheels is an essential medical transport device designed for safe, efficient, and mobile patient movement in emergency, clinical, and rescue environments. These stretchers combine portability with stability, allowing healthcare providers to quickly deploy and transport patients across diverse terrains and settings. Their collapsible design enhances storage efficiency, making them ideal for ambulances, clinics, disaster response units, and remote medical operations.

Standard Folding Stretcher with Wheels

Designed for general patient transport, this model features a lightweight yet durable frame typically constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum or reinforced composite plastic. The integrated wheel system enables smooth rolling over flat and slightly uneven surfaces.

Advantages

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Quick folding mechanism for compact storage
• Cost-effective and widely available
• Ideal for routine hospital transfers and ambulance use

Limitations

• Limited weight capacity (typically up to 300 lbs)
• Minimal adjustability features
• Less suited for rough terrain or prolonged use

Best for: Emergency medical services (EMS), outpatient clinics, and general patient transfers

Heavy-Duty Folding Stretcher with Wheels

Built for enhanced strength and load-bearing capability, this stretcher uses reinforced steel or high-tensile aluminum alloys. It supports bariatric or trauma patients and is engineered for durability in high-demand environments.

Advantages

• High weight capacity (up to 500–700 lbs)
• Robust construction resists wear and impact
• Stable wheelbase with all-terrain tires
• Suitable for frequent use in hospitals and emergency zones

Limitations

• Heavier and bulkier when folded
• Higher cost compared to standard models
• Requires more storage space

Best for: Bariatric care, trauma units, and emergency response teams handling critical cases

Folding Stretcher with Recline Feature

This advanced model allows adjustable backrest positioning, enabling caregivers to modify the patient’s posture during transport. Ideal for patients with respiratory issues, spinal concerns, or post-surgical needs, the recline function improves comfort and medical safety.

Advantages

• Adjustable backrest for patient comfort and medical positioning
• Enhanced safety during long-distance transfers
• Supports critical care and surgical transport
• Often includes locking mechanisms for secure positioning

Limitations

• Increased mechanical complexity may require maintenance
• Higher weight due to added components
• Premium pricing compared to basic models

Best for: Critical care transport, surgical units, and patients requiring specific positioning

Cross-Folding Stretcher with Wheels

Featuring a unique X-frame or scissor-style folding mechanism, this design collapses vertically or laterally, significantly reducing its footprint. The compact form makes it ideal for tight storage spaces without sacrificing mobility.

Advantages

• Extremely compact when folded—ideal for small ambulances or vehicles
• Quick deployment with intuitive folding system
• Wheels enable smooth movement despite compact size
• Popular in military, mountain rescue, and urban EMS

Limitations

• May have lower weight capacity than full-frame stretchers
• Less rigid than traditional models on uneven ground
• Can be more expensive due to specialized engineering

Best for: Ambulances, rescue vehicles, and mobile medical units with limited storage

Water-Resistant Folding Stretcher

Engineered for challenging environments, this stretcher uses corrosion-resistant materials such as marine-grade stainless steel, anodized aluminum, and waterproof fabrics. It withstands exposure to rain, seawater, and decontamination fluids.

Advantages

• Resistant to rust, moisture, and chemical exposure
• Durable in marine, flood, or outdoor rescue scenarios
• Easy to clean and disinfect—ideal for infection control
• Often used in coastal EMS, dive rescue, and disaster zones

Limitations

• Premium cost due to specialized materials
• May require specific maintenance to preserve water resistance
• Slightly heavier than standard models

Best for: Marine rescue, flood response, and outdoor emergency operations

Expert Tip: Always inspect the wheel bearings and folding mechanisms regularly, especially after exposure to water or debris. Lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure smooth operation and extend the lifespan of your stretcher.

Durability and Materials of Folding Stretcher with Wheels

The durability and performance of a folding stretcher with wheels are directly influenced by the materials used in its construction. A well-engineered stretcher balances strength, weight, ease of maintenance, and patient comfort—critical factors in emergency medical services, disaster response, and hospital transport. Selecting the right materials ensures reliability under stress, longevity in service, and safety for both patients and responders.

Aluminum Alloy Frames

Aluminum alloy is one of the most widely used materials for folding stretcher frames due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. These frames are significantly lighter than steel alternatives, making them ideal for rapid deployment and extended use in field operations. Despite their lightweight nature, aluminum stretchers maintain structural integrity under heavy loads—typically supporting up to 300 pounds or more, depending on design and reinforcement.

A key advantage of aluminum is its natural resistance to corrosion. This makes it particularly suitable for outdoor environments, coastal regions, or emergency scenarios involving exposure to moisture, rain, or cleaning agents. Unlike untreated steel, aluminum does not rust, which enhances the lifespan of the stretcher and reduces long-term maintenance costs. Its durability and portability make aluminum the preferred choice for EMS teams, search and rescue units, and mobile medical clinics.

Steel Frames

When maximum strength and load-bearing capacity are paramount, steel frames offer unmatched durability. These stretchers are engineered for heavy-duty applications such as bariatric patient transport, industrial accident response, or military use where extreme conditions are expected. Steel provides superior rigidity and can support significantly higher weight limits—often exceeding 500 pounds—making it ideal for specialized medical transport needs.

However, the primary trade-off is weight. Steel stretchers are considerably heavier than aluminum models, which can impact maneuverability and increase physical strain on personnel during prolonged use. While modern designs often incorporate powder-coated or galvanized finishes to resist rust, regular maintenance is still required to prevent corrosion, especially in humid or saline environments. Despite the added bulk, steel remains the go-to material when uncompromising strength is essential.

Canvas and PVC Fabric

The seating and backrest surfaces of folding stretchers are typically constructed from high-tensile canvas or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fabric—both known for their resilience and functional benefits. Canvas is valued for its breathability and comfort, reducing heat buildup and improving patient well-being during extended transport. It’s also highly durable and resistant to tearing, especially when treated for water and mildew resistance.

PVC, on the other hand, offers excellent water resistance and is exceptionally easy to clean—critical in medical settings where hygiene is non-negotiable. Spills, blood, and bodily fluids can be wiped away quickly, minimizing infection risks. PVC is also less prone to microbial growth when properly maintained. Many premium stretchers combine both materials strategically: canvas for comfort zones and PVC for spill-prone areas, achieving an optimal balance of functionality and sanitation.

Foam Padding

High-density foam padding is a hallmark of professional-grade folding stretchers, significantly enhancing patient comfort and safety during transport. The foam absorbs shocks and vibrations from uneven terrain, reducing the risk of secondary injury—especially important in off-road or emergency evacuations. It also helps prevent pressure sores during long-distance transfers or in critical care scenarios.

To ensure durability and hygiene, the foam is typically encased in a seamless vinyl or antimicrobial cover that resists punctures, stains, and bacterial growth. These covers are easy to disinfect using hospital-grade cleaners, meeting infection control standards. The combination of supportive foam and protective outer layer makes padded stretchers essential for ambulance services, disaster relief, and interfacility patient transfers.

ABS Plastic Components

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic is frequently used in non-structural but critical parts of folding stretchers, including wheel housings, seat pans, control levers, and joint connectors. ABS offers an excellent balance of impact resistance, lightweight properties, and moldability, allowing for complex, ergonomic designs without adding bulk.

While not as strong as metal, ABS plastic performs reliably under normal operational stresses and is highly resistant to cracking or shattering in cold environments. Its low weight contributes to the overall portability of the stretcher, making it a preferred material in compact and travel-ready models. Additionally, ABS is chemically stable and easy to clean, supporting infection control protocols. It’s particularly beneficial in pediatric or lightweight rescue stretchers where minimizing weight is a priority.

Important: Always verify the weight capacity and material specifications before selecting a folding stretcher. Mixing incompatible materials or exceeding load limits can compromise safety and lead to equipment failure. Regular inspection and cleaning are essential to maintain material integrity and ensure continued performance in critical situations.

Scenarios of Folding Stretchers with Wheels: A Comprehensive Guide

Folding stretchers with wheels are essential medical transport devices engineered for safety, portability, and adaptability. These lightweight, compact, and durable tools play a critical role in patient movement across diverse environments—from urban hospitals to remote disaster zones. Their ability to fold ensures easy storage and rapid deployment, while integrated wheels enhance mobility over various surfaces. Below is an in-depth exploration of key scenarios where these stretchers prove indispensable.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Folding wheeled stretchers are the backbone of pre-hospital care. Paramedics and first responders rely on them to safely extract and transport patients from accident sites, homes, or public spaces to ambulances and emergency departments.

• Compact folding design allows for efficient storage in emergency vehicles with limited space
• All-terrain wheels enable smooth navigation over curbs, gravel, stairs, and uneven ground
• Quick deployment supports time-sensitive rescues in traffic collisions or multi-story buildings
• Integrated safety straps and adjustable height settings ensure patient stability during transit

Key benefit: Enhances response efficiency by combining mobility with rapid setup in high-pressure situations.

Hospital and Clinical Use

Within healthcare facilities, these stretchers streamline internal patient transfers, reducing physical strain on staff and improving workflow across departments.

• Used to move patients from emergency rooms to imaging centers, operating theaters, or recovery units
• Lockable wheels provide stability during transfers and procedures
• Foldable frame enables convenient storage in crowded hallways or small utility rooms
• Compatible with radiolucent models for use in X-ray or CT scan environments

Pro tip: Hospitals often use color-coded stretchers to differentiate between departments or patient acuity levels.

Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Missions

In the aftermath of natural disasters—such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes—folding stretchers become vital tools for mass casualty management.

• Lightweight construction allows for air transport and hand-carrying into inaccessible areas
• Durable materials withstand exposure to water, mud, and debris
• Stackable design supports deployment in field hospitals or triage centers with minimal infrastructure
• Used extensively by organizations like the Red Cross, UN agencies, and NGOs during relief operations

Critical advantage: Enables rapid patient evacuation even when roads are blocked or vehicles cannot reach affected zones.

Sporting Events and Mass Gatherings

At concerts, festivals, marathons, and large-scale sports events, medical teams use folding stretchers to respond quickly to injuries or medical emergencies among attendees.

• Wheeled design allows medics to navigate through dense crowds efficiently
• Folding capability means units can be stored in compact medical response kits
• Often paired with trauma supplies and AEDs for on-site emergency care
• Used for heat exhaustion, cardiac events, falls, or sports-related injuries

Event insight: Many event planners now require medical teams to have at least one folding stretcher on standby per 5,000 attendees.

Military and Tactical Medicine

Military medics operate in extreme conditions where speed, durability, and adaptability are paramount—making folding stretchers with wheels a standard piece of field medical equipment.

• Used to evacuate wounded personnel from combat zones or training grounds
• Designed to endure harsh environments including sand, snow, and jungle terrain
• Some models feature ballistic-resistant frames or compatibility with body armor
• Can be carried by two personnel when wheels are not usable (e.g., rough terrain)

Tactical note: Modern military stretchers often include MOLLE-compatible attachments for gear integration.

Rural and Remote Healthcare Access

In underserved or geographically isolated regions, these stretchers bridge the gap between home-based care and distant medical facilities.

• Essential in villages without ambulance access or paved roads
• Can be transported via motorcycle, boat, or even animal pack in remote areas
• Help community health workers safely move elderly or injured patients
• Often used in maternal health emergencies or during disease outbreaks

Global impact: WHO and other health organizations distribute folding stretchers as part of emergency medical kits in low-resource settings.

Best Practice Recommendation: When selecting a folding stretcher with wheels, consider factors such as weight capacity (typically 300–450 lbs), material durability (aluminum frames are lightweight yet strong), wheel type (pneumatic for rough terrain, solid for indoor use), and ease of cleaning for infection control. For multi-environment use, opt for models with quick-release wheels and fold-flat designs.

Additional Considerations for Optimal Use

• Patient Safety: Always ensure the stretcher is locked in place before moving and that safety belts are securely fastened.
• Infection Control: Choose models with wipeable, antimicrobial surfaces and removable padding for easy disinfection.
• Training: Staff should be trained in proper lifting techniques and stretcher handling to prevent injury.
• Accessibility: Some models include ramps or transfer aids for bariatric or mobility-impaired patients.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure stretchers meet ISO 10535 standards for medical stretchers and FDA or CE certifications where applicable.

Specification & Maintenance of Folding Stretcher with Wheels

Understanding the specifications and maintenance of a folding wheeled stretcher is essential for ensuring long-term reliability, patient safety, and operational efficiency. Whether used in emergency medical services, hospitals, or remote rescue operations, a well-maintained stretcher enhances mobility and performance. This comprehensive guide outlines key technical specifications and best practices for maintaining your folding stretcher to maximize durability and safety.

Safety Notice: Always inspect the stretcher before use. Never transport a patient on a damaged or improperly maintained stretcher. Regular maintenance prevents equipment failure during critical operations.

Key Specifications to Consider

When selecting or evaluating a folding wheeled stretcher, several critical specifications determine its suitability for different environments and patient needs. Below is a detailed breakdown of each essential feature:

• Weight Capacity

  The weight capacity defines the maximum load the stretcher can safely support. This is one of the most critical safety parameters. Most models are rated between 250 to 350 lbs (113–159 kg), but heavy-duty versions may exceed 400 lbs. Always choose a stretcher that accommodates the heaviest potential patient with a safety margin. Exceeding the weight limit can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of mechanical failure.

• Wheel Size and Type

  Wheels significantly affect maneuverability and terrain adaptability. Larger wheels (typically 6–8 inches) perform better on uneven surfaces such as gravel, grass, or stairs, reducing rolling resistance and improving stability. Smaller wheels (4–6 inches) offer greater agility in tight corridors or elevators. Most stretchers use solid rubber or polyurethane tires, which provide excellent grip, are puncture-proof, and operate quietly. Swivel front wheels enhance turning radius, while rear locking wheels improve directional control.

• Locking Mechanism

  A reliable locking system ensures patient safety during transport. High-quality stretchers feature dual-action locks: wheel brakes to prevent movement and frame locks to secure the stretcher in both open and folded positions. These mechanisms should be easy to engage and disengage, even with gloves on. Look for corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or coated alloys to ensure long-term functionality, especially in high-humidity or outdoor environments.

• Overall Weight

  The stretcher’s own weight impacts portability and ease of deployment. Lightweight models (typically 15–25 lbs or 7–11 kg) are ideal for rapid response and situations requiring frequent lifting, such as staircases or remote locations. Aluminum alloy frames are commonly used due to their optimal strength-to-weight ratio. Despite being light, they must remain rigid and resistant to bending under load.

• Load Capacity

  While often used interchangeably with weight capacity, load capacity refers to the total system strength, including frame, joints, and fabric. It is determined by material quality, weld integrity, and structural design. A higher load capacity indicates greater safety margins and longer service life. Always verify load ratings from certified manufacturers and avoid makeshift modifications that could weaken the structure.

• Material Composition

  Modern folding stretchers use a combination of durable, lightweight materials. The frame is typically constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, offering excellent resistance to corrosion and fatigue. The patient support surface is commonly made from high-tensile PVC-coated fabric or ripstop nylon, which is waterproof, tear-resistant, and easy to clean. These materials withstand repeated disinfection and exposure to bodily fluids, making them ideal for medical and emergency use.

• Dimensions (Open & Folded)

  The physical dimensions affect both usability and storage. When open, standard stretchers range from 70–78 inches in length and 20–24 inches in width, accommodating most adult patients comfortably. In the folded position, they typically measure 30–36 inches in length, allowing for compact storage in ambulances, aircraft, or emergency kits. Always confirm that the folded size fits your designated storage space and that the open configuration allows for proper patient positioning and securement.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Safety

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your folding stretcher and ensures consistent performance in critical situations. Follow these best practices to keep your equipment in optimal condition.

1. Regular Cleaning

Hygiene is paramount, especially in medical and emergency response settings. Clean the stretcher after every use to prevent contamination and bacterial growth. Use a mild disinfectant solution suitable for medical equipment. Wipe down the PVC or fabric surface with a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive scrubbing that could damage the coating. For the frame, use a damp cloth with disinfectant—avoid high-pressure water jets that may force moisture into joints or locking mechanisms. Allow the stretcher to air dry completely before folding or storing.

Pro Tip: For blood or biohazard spills, follow OSHA and CDC guidelines. Use an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant effective against bloodborne pathogens. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection during cleaning.

2. Routine Inspection

Conduct a thorough inspection before each use and schedule a detailed monthly check for frequently used units. Focus on the following:

• Check all locking mechanisms for smooth operation and secure engagement.
• Inspect wheels for cracks, flat spots, or worn treads.
• Examine the frame for bends, cracks, or loose welds.
• Look for tears, holes, or weakened stitching in the fabric sling.
• Ensure all bolts, pins, and hinges are tight and free of corrosion.

Replace damaged components immediately. Never use a stretcher with compromised structural integrity.

3. Lubrication of Moving Parts

Regular lubrication prevents stiffness and ensures smooth deployment and folding. Apply a silicone-based or dry-film lubricant to hinges, pivot points, and wheel axles every 3–6 months, or more frequently in high-use environments. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they attract dust and debris, which can lead to clogging and premature wear. After lubrication, operate the stretcher several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

4. Proper Storage

Store the stretcher in a clean, dry, climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. UV exposure can degrade PVC fabric and weaken plastic components over time. Always store the stretcher in its folded position to prevent warping of the frame or tension loss in the fabric. Hang it on a wall rack or place it on a shelf to avoid floor moisture and accidental damage. In vehicles, secure it with straps to prevent shifting during transit.

Expert Recommendation: Maintain a maintenance log for each stretcher, recording cleaning dates, inspections, repairs, and part replacements. This supports accountability, aids in tracking wear patterns, and ensures compliance with organizational or regulatory standards.

Final Thoughts

A folding wheeled stretcher is a vital piece of life-saving equipment. Selecting the right model based on verified specifications and adhering to a consistent maintenance routine ensures operational readiness and patient safety. By investing time in proper care, healthcare providers and emergency responders can rely on their stretchers to perform when it matters most. When in doubt about repairs or performance, consult the manufacturer or a certified technician before returning the unit to service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Folding Stretchers with Wheels

When choosing a folding stretcher with wheels, several critical factors should be evaluated to ensure optimal performance, safety, and suitability for your specific needs:

• Weight Capacity: This is one of the most crucial considerations. Assess the maximum patient weight the stretcher must support. Most models range from 300 to 600 pounds, so match this to the expected user population—whether in emergency medical services, hospitals, or remote rescue operations.
• Material Composition: The frame material significantly impacts both durability and portability. Aluminum is widely preferred due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, offering a lightweight yet robust solution. Steel models are stronger but heavier, making them less ideal for frequent transport.
• Durability and Build Quality: Look for reinforced joints, corrosion-resistant coatings, and high-tensile fabrics. These features ensure longevity, especially in demanding environments like disaster zones or rugged outdoor terrain.
• Wheels and Mobility: Consider the type of wheels—pneumatic (air-filled) for shock absorption on uneven surfaces, or solid rubber for low maintenance. Swivel front wheels improve maneuverability in tight spaces, while large rear wheels aid in navigating stairs or rough ground.
• Ease of Use: Features such as quick-release folding mechanisms, adjustable height settings, and intuitive locking systems enhance usability during high-pressure situations. Lightweight design also contributes to easier handling and faster deployment.

Selecting the right stretcher involves balancing these elements based on intended use—whether for urban EMS, wilderness rescue, or hospital transfers.

The cost of a folding stretcher with wheels varies significantly based on multiple interrelated factors. Understanding these can help you make an informed purchasing decision:

• Material Type: Aluminum stretchers are generally more expensive than steel or composite alternatives due to their superior combination of lightness, strength, and resistance to rust. High-grade aerospace aluminum commands a premium but offers long-term value through reduced fatigue and easier transport.
• Advanced Features: Additional functionalities substantially affect pricing. These include:
  • Reclining or articulating backrests for improved patient comfort and positioning.
  • Waterproof and antimicrobial fabric for hygiene and all-weather use.
  • Integrated accessories such as IV pole mounts, oxygen tank holders, or head immobilizers.
  • Customization options like color coding, branding, or specialized padding for bariatric patients.
• Brand Reputation and Certification: Well-established medical equipment brands often charge more due to rigorous testing, compliance with international safety standards (e.g., ISO, CE, FDA), and reliable customer support. Certified products provide assurance of quality and performance under stress.
• Model and Intended Use: Tactical or military-grade stretchers designed for extreme conditions (e.g., mountain rescue, combat zones) are priced higher than basic models used in clinics or ambulances.

While budget models exist, investing in a higher-quality stretcher often results in better durability, safety, and operational efficiency—especially in critical or high-frequency usage scenarios.

Absolutely. Folding stretchers with wheels are specifically engineered to perform reliably in outdoor and emergency environments. Their design emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and ease of transport:

• All-Terrain Capability: Many models come equipped with rugged, large-diameter wheels—often pneumatic or semi-pneumatic—that absorb shocks and roll smoothly over dirt, gravel, sand, snow, or debris-strewn areas. Some even feature track-style attachments for extreme conditions.
• Weather Resistance: High-quality stretchers use waterproof, UV-resistant, and mold-inhibiting materials for both the frame and fabric. This ensures functionality in rain, humidity, or prolonged sun exposure without degradation.
• Portability: When folded, most stretchers become compact and lightweight, allowing them to be carried in backpacks, stored in emergency vehicles, or airlifted into remote locations. Some can be broken down further for helicopter or drone delivery.
• Rapid Deployment: Simple locking mechanisms and tool-free setup enable first responders to deploy the stretcher quickly, even under challenging circumstances such as low visibility or adverse weather.

These features make folding wheeled stretchers indispensable in search and rescue missions, natural disasters, mass casualty incidents, and remote area evacuations.

Maintenance frequency depends heavily on usage intensity and operational environment. A structured maintenance schedule helps prevent failures and extends equipment lifespan:

• Daily Inspections: Before and after every use, conduct a visual and functional check. Examine wheel integrity, frame stability, locking mechanisms, fabric tears, and cleanliness. Ensure all parts move freely and lock securely.
• Biweekly Maintenance (High-Use Settings): For stretchers used in outdoor rescue, disaster response, or field operations, perform detailed checks every two weeks. This includes lubricating hinges and joints, tightening bolts, inspecting weld points, and testing load capacity.
• Monthly Maintenance (Clinical Settings): In hospitals or clinics with regular but controlled use, a comprehensive monthly maintenance routine is typically sufficient. Clean and disinfect surfaces, verify structural integrity, and document inspection results for compliance.
• Post-Exposure Cleaning: After exposure to water, mud, blood, or chemicals, immediately rinse and dry the stretcher thoroughly to prevent corrosion or contamination.

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and keep a maintenance log. Regular care ensures that your stretcher remains reliable, safe, and ready for immediate deployment when needed most.

Yes, many modern folding stretchers are specifically designed or customizable to accommodate patients with special medical or physical requirements:

• Reclining and Articulating Functions: Specialized models feature adjustable backrests and leg sections, allowing medical personnel to position patients comfortably during transport—especially beneficial for those with respiratory issues, spinal injuries, or circulatory concerns.
• Enhanced Support Systems: Integrated head immobilizers, pelvic stabilizers, side rails, and harness systems help secure patients with trauma, neurological conditions, or mobility limitations.
• Bariatric and Pediatric Options: Some stretchers are built to support higher weight capacities (up to 800 lbs) with wider frames and reinforced components. Others are scaled down for pediatric use, ensuring proper fit and safety for children.
• Durable, Medical-Grade Materials: Fabrics are often made from abrasion-resistant, flame-retardant, and fluid-proof materials that withstand frequent cleaning and decontamination—ideal for infection control and long-term use in critical care settings.
• Customization: Manufacturers may offer tailored configurations including padding thickness, color coding, accessory mounts, and even integration with monitoring devices.

These specialized features make folding stretchers versatile tools in emergency medicine, enabling safe and dignified transport for diverse patient populations—from trauma victims to elderly or chronically ill individuals.