Wheelchairs are among the most vital medical devices in hospitals as they allow for a safe, and convenient transfer of patients from one location to another. Therefore, it is necessary to develop wheelchairs with functions that meet the needs of both medical practitioners and their patients.

   The continuous collaboration of the Medical and Well-Being Business and the Design Catalyst teams of SCG Chemicals with BDMS has resulted in several innovations that not only contribute to sustainable social and environmental development but also enhance safety and convenience as well as ensure the recycling of used plastics generated in BDMS hospitals, including needles specific disposal bins, smart medication carts, and flower pots made from hemodialysis gallon bottles, all of which are in line with the goals of both organizations. The latest among these is the smart transfer wheelchair, which eliminates commonly found issues in regular models and comes with a new spruced-up design that helps enhance the image of the hospital.

Design Research: Turning Weaknesses into Strengths

   Leveraging their expertise in materials, partnership network, and experience in designing medical equipment, in conjunction with real-life accounts of the medical professionals who operated wheelchairs and the needs of actual wheelchair users, the Medical and Well-Being Business and the Design Catalyst teams of SCG Chemicals were able to identify areas that could be improved upon and successfully developed a design that would meet everyone’s needs.

“The wheelchair industry has not seen any development for over 20 years. This collaboration with BDMS not only helps improve the design to enhance the corporate image but also serves as a springboard for further improving services for patients.” — Supathida Ratanaswasd, Medical and Well-being Business. Manager, SCG Chemicals

Designed for users

   The wheelchair has been given an ergonomic design to better suit patients, who are the primary users of wheelchairs. The familiar metal X-frame with a canvas seat and big metal wheels has been replaced with a cushion with lumbar support, preventing a backache when users sit in a wheelchair for a long period of time.

   Designed with the process of patient transfer in mind, the wheelchair is also equipped with various functional features for users, such as the armrests that patients can use to support themselves when standing up and can be folded to the back when necessary and the footrests that can be extended to support the feet for users with leg injuries or weakness or users who wear a cast and can be folded away with a special button. The wheelchair also comes with a three-point safety belt, much like the type found in automobiles.

   In addition to the design, the material has also been chosen to ensure hygiene. The cushion is made from SCG Chemicals’ proprietary foam material, which is resistant to disinfectants and scratches, meaning that the seat will not harbor pathogens or dirt.

Designed for caregivers

   Another group of users are patient transporters. The design team of SCG Chemicals has equipped the wheelchair with various features that facilitate a safe transfer of patients, including a foot-operated rear brake system that makes braking easier and helps maintain a distance with the patient and the ergonomic handles designed to ease wheelchair pushing.

   In addition to convenience, the wheelchair is also designed for ease of maintenance in response to the needs of patient transporters. With fewer parts and joints, the wheelchair is less likely to be damaged during use, which translates to reduced maintenance costs and a longer lifespan, benefiting both the staff and the organization in the long run.

Designed for hospitals

   Another outstanding feature of the new model is the improved aesthetics that are distinct from regular wheelchairs. When coupled with a comprehensive range of features designed to meet the needs of all users, the new wheelchair not only enhances the image of the hospital but also demonstrates its care for all patients and the determination to constantly develop and innovate medical equipment, thus bolstering the trust and confidence of all service users.

“These features were born out of our attempt to solve the pain points of wheelchair users and operators. Of course, our customers now enjoy greater safety and are impressed by our services.”

– Sermsak Khampitoon, Customer Experience Management Director