I took Mama home from the hospital with the discharge doctor's instruction echoing in my head, "Get her to a cardiologist for follow-up in a week." How was I going to do that? She couldn't walk, had little strength, and would be on the second floor of our home during recuperation.
A physician transport service brought her into our house and up the stairs when she arrived from the hospital. I contacted them later to arrange transportation for the cardiologist's appointment. They quoted a charge of $500 each way. This seemed highly unreasonable for one doctor's visit and impossible as a longer-term solution, considering the multiple checkups to come.
The way out of this dilemma appeared after a brief web search. I found the Dealmed EMS Stair Chair on Ebay. Check it out here.
"The Dealmed Aluminum EMS Stair Chair is designed to help EMTs transport patients through tight spaces and up or down stairs, safely and efficiently. The sturdy aluminum frame is strong enough to hold up to 400 pounds, yet surprisingly lightweight. Three adjustable straps with quick-release buckles ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. Non-slip grips on the rear and front handles help rescuers maneuver the Aluminum EMS Stair Chair easily. Compact folding allows you to stow the stair chair in the ambulance without taking up a lot of space."
The chair performs just as advertized. Mama weighs just over 110 pounds. Two able-bodied, middle-aged people have easily and safely moved her up and down fourteen steps multiple times. At $220, the Stair Chair has been a bargain and a blessing.
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