Abstract: An extension assembly for converting an existing bed or the like to a patient care bed. The extension assembly includes a mattress and extension platform supported by legs on one side and by an existing bed on the other side. The extension further includes a cutaway located approximately midway along the outside edge of the extension platform and in the mattress to allow for patient care and to facilitate patient ingress into and egress out of bed without the necessity of lifting. The cutaway is designed to mate with and is normally filled by accessories such as a wheeled carriage or a flat insert.