A New World of Healthcare means a New World of Healthcare Design

A Focus on Outpatient Facilities

More people are seeking care than ever before, and hospitals are starting to refocus their resources in the system to becoming more specified on low-acuity care. “For hospital outpatient departments and ambulatory surgery centers, patient volume is expected to increase by 15 million visits by 2029; over the same period, hospital emergency departments will see 5 million fewer patients.” (Gensler, 2022).

The pandemic also affected patient trust in their healthcare providers, causing many health organizations to pivot their patient engagement on establishing trust and loyalty with their patients. “A waning trust among Americans in their healthcare is contributing to a sense that personal changes should be made: about half of outpatient consumers say they would make a change to their healthcare” (Gensler Research Institute, 2021). So, not only is there a rise in outpatient facilities in general, but the quality and efficiency of these facilities are being vastly improved. From the moment a patient sets foot in the parking lot of an outpatient care facility, their healthcare experience is being impacted. Gensler Research Institute states that “over one-third of the variance in positive feelings during the visit can be explained by the impressions of the exterior and exam room quality.” (Gensler Research Institute, 2021). Design Collaborative realizes how important good branding and quality design can affect both patient and staff experience, leaving them with positive feelings and a stronger sense of loyalty to their healthcare organization. How do we do this? With our unique design process, we have time dedicated to listening to each client carefully to learn what best fits their needs and desires. With this, we are better able to serve the growing need for outpatient facilities that are flexible, innovative, and can provide the best care possible.

Image: Alliance Health Lafayette Medical Center

Telehealth & Technology

“In the U.S., eight out of ten internet users have searched for health information online. That means the first brand touchpoint is often virtual: the healthcare experience begins well before the consumer enters the waiting room.” Gensler Research Institute, 2021). Telehealth was something that became necessary during the pandemic and is now a convenience many people are realizing they prefer. With this in mind, it is important for healthcare designers to take into consideration the comfortability and feel of offices where health professionals conduct virtual appointments. Health professionals who are spending less time interacting in person with patients need spaces that have all of the technology that they need to continue their practice, as well as spaces that encourage their health and well-being. Not interfacing physically with patients can be a complete overhaul for the way physicians administer treatment, so these new spaces require an attuned level of detail pertaining not only to comfort, but also acoustics, I.T. requirements, and flexibility.