Add-On Service
Stair Assistance — Free for 1-2 Stairs
For 1-2 stairs, we provide FREE stair assistance with a portable ramp on every ride. For higher stair counts, our dedicated two-person team with a specialized stair chair safely navigates stairs at pickup and drop-off. Available for Door Through Door service and higher.
Free Stair Assistance for 1-2 Stairs
Every ride includes a portable ramp for small step-ups at no extra cost.
FREE for 1-2 Stairs
For homes or facilities with 1-2 stairs at the entrance, our driver provides complimentary assistance using a portable ramp. No extra charge, no advance notice needed.
Stair Chair for 3+ Stairs
For full flights of stairs (3 or more), we dispatch a two-person team with a specialized stair chair. This is an add-on service quoted at booking.
Terms & Conditions
Free stair assistance applies to 1-2 exterior stairs only. The ramp must be safely deployable at the location. For interior stairs, stairwells, or more than 2 stairs, stair chair service with a two-person team is required.
Why a Two-Person Team?
Patient safety on stairs requires two trained attendants working in sync. This is not optional — it is our standard protocol for every stair-assist trip.
Stability
One attendant at the top, one at the bottom. The patient is never unsupported at any point during the stairs.
Weight Distribution
Two attendants share the load safely. No single person bears the full weight of the patient and chair on an incline.
Dignity
Smooth, professional handling means the patient feels safe and respected. No rushing, no awkward moments.
How Stair Assistance Works
A clear, repeatable process our team follows on every stair-assist trip.
Assessment
Before the trip, our dispatch team confirms the number of flights, stair width, and any obstacles. This ensures the right equipment and crew are assigned.
Two-Person Team Arrives
Two trained attendants arrive together. One will guide from the top of the stairs, the other stabilizes from below. This two-person protocol is mandatory for every stair-assist trip.
Patient Secured in Stair Chair
The patient is carefully transferred to the stair chair and secured with a multi-point harness system. Attendants verify all straps before any movement begins.
Controlled Descent or Ascent
Using a step-by-step technique, the team navigates each stair at a controlled pace. The rear attendant bears the primary load while the front attendant guides direction and braking.
Transfer to Vehicle
Once at ground level, the patient is safely transferred from the stair chair to the transport vehicle — whether ambulatory sedan, wheelchair van, or stretcher vehicle.
When to Request Stair Assistance
If any of these situations apply, add stair assistance when booking.
Home Pickup or Drop-Off
- Patient lives above the ground floor
- Building has no elevator or elevator is too small
- Front entrance has exterior stairs
- Patient cannot safely walk stairs unassisted
Medical Facility
- Facility entrance has steps without a ramp
- Patient needs to reach a floor without elevator access
- Temporary construction blocking accessible entrance
- Rural clinics or older buildings without ADA compliance
Discharge & Recovery
- Post-surgery patients returning to multi-level homes
- Hospital discharge where patient has temporary mobility limits
- Rehabilitation facility transfers requiring stair navigation
- Patients with temporary injuries (broken leg, hip replacement)
Available for Door Through Door & Above
Stair assistance is available for Door Through Door service level and above. Depending on the number of stairs, your trip may be upgraded to stretcher level.
Door Through Door
Our base level for stair assistance. Patient is assisted from inside their home, down the stairs, and into the vehicle with a stair chair and two-person team.
Wheelchair
Patient is transferred from wheelchair to stair chair for the stairs, then back to wheelchair at ground level. Wheelchair service comes with one driver — stair assist adds the second crew member.
Stretcher (Auto-Upgrade)
For higher stair counts, your trip may be upgraded to stretcher level. Our stretcher crew comes with two people and is better equipped for safe stair navigation.
Stair Assistance FAQs
Is stair assistance really free?
Yes! For 1-2 stairs, we provide free stair assistance with a portable ramp at no additional charge. This is included with every ride for Door Through Door service and higher.
What are the terms for free stair assistance?
Free stair assistance covers 1-2 exterior stairs where a portable ramp can be safely deployed. For interior stairs, stairwells, spiral stairs, or more than 2 stairs, our stair chair service with a two-person team is required (additional fee applies).
How much does stair assistance cost?
Stair assistance is an add-on fee on top of your base trip rate. The exact cost depends on the number of flights and is quoted when you book. There are no hidden charges.
Do both attendants ride in the vehicle?
Yes. Both attendants travel with the patient. One drives the vehicle while the other rides alongside the patient to provide care and assistance throughout the trip.
What if I only have 2–3 stairs at my front door?
For 1-2 stairs, stair assistance is FREE with a portable ramp — no extra charge. For 3 or more stairs, our stair chair service with a two-person team is recommended. Just mention the number of stairs when booking.
Can you do stair assistance for wheelchair patients?
Yes. The patient is transferred from their wheelchair to the stair chair for the stairs, then back to their wheelchair at the other end. Our team handles the entire transfer safely.
What equipment do you use?
We use commercial-grade stair chairs with multi-point harness systems, non-slip treads, and braking mechanisms. All equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
How far in advance should I book stair assistance?
We recommend booking at least 48–72 hours ahead so we can assign a two-person crew. For recurring rides, we can set up stair assistance on every trip automatically.
Why might my trip be upgraded to stretcher level?
Our wheelchair service comes with a single driver, but stair assistance requires two people. If the number of stairs is significant, we may upgrade your trip to stretcher level because our stretcher crew comes with two trained attendants who are better equipped for safe stair navigation. This ensures proper safety at all times.
What service levels include stair assistance?
Stair assistance is available for Door Through Door service and higher. It is not available for Curb to Curb service. When you book, just mention that stairs are involved and we’ll assign the right crew and equipment.
Need Stair Assistance on Your Next Trip?
Mention stair assistance when booking online or by phone. Include the number of flights so we assign the right team.