For decades, Rowland Emergency has specialized in supporting the critical work of paramedic services and healthcare providers across Canada. From custom-fabricated accessories to full emergency response vehicle upfitting, our solutions have always been guided by one principle: meeting the needs of front-line professionals in real-world conditions.
Today, we are proud to introduce the latest step in that mission: the Rowland Emergency Patient Transfer Vehicle (PTV) — a purpose-built solution designed specifically for safe, professional, and efficient low-acuity patient transport.
Why Patient Transfer Vehicles Matter
Healthcare systems across Canada are facing increased demand for non-urgent transport services. Inter-facility transfers, long-term care appointments, and low-acuity EMS calls require vehicles that provide both clinical reliability and operational efficiency without the cost or complexity of a full ambulance.
Historically, many providers have relied on retrofitted vans or older surplus ambulances for this role. While workable, these options often fall short in meeting Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) and can pose long-term maintenance burdens.
Rowland Emergency’s PTVs fill this gap by offering a modern, compliant, and scalable alternative built with the same attention to detail that defines our emergency response vehicle portfolio.
Built on Proven Foundations
Every Rowland Emergency PTV is constructed on a Ford Transit cargo van chassis — long wheelbase, mid-roof height. This platform offers an ideal balance of:
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Reliability: Backed by Ford’s extensive service network and warranty coverage.
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Efficiency: Engineered for fuel economy and ease of maintenance.
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Flexibility: A configuration that supports both patient transfer and mobile response applications.
The result is a vehicle that isn’t just road-ready, but fleet-ready, designed to integrate seamlessly with your service’s existing maintenance schedules and procurement strategies.
Designed with Patients and Providers in Mind
Rowland Emergency understands that every second spent in a patient transfer vehicle matters — not just for the patient, but for the paramedics, attendants, and staff who rely on safe, ergonomic, and reliable systems.
Inside, you’ll find a clinically inspired layout:
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Rear-facing attendant seat with three-point belt system
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Crew bench seating with storage space beneath
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Upper cabinets with sliding and flip-up doors
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Dedicated storage for stair chairs, backboards, and oxygen cylinders
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LED ceiling lighting and ambulance-grade flooring
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Partition wall between the cab and patient compartment with sliding window
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Integrated HVAC ensuring year-round comfort
Every compartment, shelf, and grab handle is designed to support safe patient handling and reduce ergonomic strain for staff.
Compliance and Safety at the Core
Our vehicles are fully compliant with CMVSS and engineered with EMS-specific electrical and safety features. From powder-coated interiors and insulated walls to advanced inverter options for powering defibrillators, laptops, and incubators, we’ve integrated the tools that matter most in non-urgent patient care.
Optional enhancements include:
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Power-LOAD installation for services already equipped with Stryker systems
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Scene lighting packages for improved visibility in dark or rural environments
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Anti-idle systems to reduce fuel consumption and emissions
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Custom decal packages designed and installed in-house
Scalable Solutions for a Changing Sector
Patient transfer requirements vary widely between urban health authorities, private transfer companies, and rural EMS providers. That’s why Rowland Emergency offers configurations that are not only adaptable but also scalable across fleets.
Whether you need a single vehicle for specialized long-term care transfers or a multi-unit fleet expansion for a municipal PTS program, our engineering team ensures build consistency and simplified operator training across units.
Real-World Benefits
When you choose a Rowland Emergency PTV, you’re investing in:
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Lower total cost of ownership: Efficient chassis, durable interiors, and simplified servicing reduce long-term expenses.
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Operational uptime: Proven electrical and HVAC systems minimize unexpected downtime.
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Fleet continuity: Standardized design ensures intuitive operation across vehicles.
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Future-proofing: Upgrade-ready interiors allow you to add new technologies as your service evolves.
Case Study: Ford Transit PTV
Our recently completed Ford Transit PTV demonstrates the possibilities of this platform:
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Capacity: Single cot securement with options for Antler/manual fastener or Stryker Power-LOAD
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Patient care layout: Dedicated work surfaces, forward storage, and rear bench seating for up to two crew members
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Safety features: Fire extinguisher storage, insulated walls, and integrated grab bars
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Power options: Choice of 600-watt or 1000-watt inverters with strategically placed outlets
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Exterior enhancements: Running boards, scene lighting, and amber lighting packages
This build highlights not only the versatility of the Ford Transit chassis but also Rowland Emergency’s commitment to combining functionality with safety.
Supporting the Full Spectrum of Non-Emergency Transport
Rowland Emergency PTVs are ideally suited for:
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Patient Transfer Services (PTS)
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Mobile Response Units
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EMS coverage for lower-acuity calls
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Specialized long-term care transfers
By focusing on the specific demands of these roles, our vehicles help reduce strain on emergency ambulance fleets, ensuring high-acuity calls receive the dedicated resources they require.
Looking Ahead
As healthcare and EMS systems adapt to growing demands, patient transfer vehicles will become a cornerstone of community-based care delivery. With the introduction of our Ford Transit PTV, Rowland Emergency is ready to support this shift by providing safe, professional, and purpose-built vehicles that strengthen the continuum of care.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If your service is considering expanding patient transfer capabilities, now is the time to explore how Rowland Emergency’s PTVs can help.