Folding chair cot for use with emergency vehicles

A chair cot configured for use with an emergency vehicle, comprising:

• at least two platforms for supporting a patient in a seated position during transportation;
• a support system coupled to the at least two platforms configured to support the at least two platforms during transportation;
• and wherein the support system is configured to substantially collapse when positioned within the emergency vehicle;
• and
• a movement system coupled to the support system that is configured to allow the chair cot to move over a surface, wherein the movement system includes a motor;
• and
• a control system coupled to the at least one platform and the movement system that allows an individual to control the operation of the movement system, and wherein the control system includes at least one mechanical brake that is configured to steer, slow, and stop the rotational movement of the movement system when engaged.

A method of transporting a patient to an emergency vehicle comprising the acts of:

• disposing the patient in to a supported seated position on a chair cot;
• expanding the chair cot including engaging a support system below the chair cot;
• engaging a movement system on the chair cot causing the chair cot to utilize rotational movement to translate over a surface;
• directing the rotational movement of the chair cot to the emergency vehicle;
• collapsing the chair cot to conform to the dimensions of an emergency vehicle;
• and
• disposing the chair cot within the emergency vehicle.