The hospital of the 21st
century prioritizes two main goals: quality of care and cost savings. The first
step to maximizing quality of care while minimizing cost is to design medical
facilities with the following features:
Sustainability and
Energy Efficiency
Not only does green building
design save on energy and water bills, it also has proven
health benefits. Natural lighting lifts moods and helps patients keep a
regular sleep schedule. This can be achieved with well-placed windows and with
state of the art artificial lighting.
Patient privacy
To help patients feel
comfortable, make sure they have access to private rooms. Individuals deserve
private rooms where they can focus on their own healing, and not be disturbed
by the needs of other patients. Soundproofing and sophisticated nurse call
systems support patients in private rooms.
Family Comfort
When a loved one is in the
hospital, family members often have to stay for hours. Waiting rooms need to be
comfortable, and facilities should make high-speed Internet available.
Magazines and televisions are a start, but some facilities also offer day care
or community classes. Consider accomodating spouses or parents who need to stay
overnight.
Efficient workflow
Staff members need an easy way
to monitor patients and respond quickly to calls. Communication systems should
be designed to reduce the steps employees need to take, and the building itself
should be designed with movement in mind. There needs to be space for gurneys,
wheelchairs, and other medical equipment in the hallways.
Codes and regulations
Of course, no facility can open
without passing code. Only then can you make the design a reality.
Once construction is complete,
professional interior installation brings the vision to life. American Western Distribution’s
professional warehousing, distribution, and installation specialists are highly
qualified to handle medical equipment and technology, patient furniture,
technological equipment, artwork, and everything your medical facility needs to
offer comfort and care.
