Coronavirus Pandemic Shifts Long-Held Healthcare Design Ideas

A move to touchless technology and elimination of waiting rooms are two examples


The coronavirus pandemic will change much of how we think about the design, construction, and operations of buildings. But in no other vertical market is that more true than healthcare facilities. 

A recent FacilitiesNet story by design firm Oculus explains two of these important evidence-based design changes: A move to a more touchfree environment, and the elimination or scaling back of waiting rooms.

From touchless temperature checks to voice activated and touchfree check-in kiosks or check-in with smartphone apps, healthcare facilities are implementing technology to eliminate as many touchpoints as possible. Patients are also being encouraged to make use of telehealth for routine appointments so they don’t have to physically enter a facility. 

Waiting rooms will be either eliminated or made much smaller and with more space between seats. Waiting rooms are notorious for being a “breeding ground for spreading germs,” the authors write. Instead, designers are looking at creating exam rooms with an exterior entrance, so patients can check-in online or in an app and go directly to their specific room. Telemedicine capability is also important for this design technique because it can help screen patients ahead of time. 

 

To read the article, click here.



November 17, 2020



Recent Posts

Legionella Detected at Michigan Health Facility

Case follows a similar finding of Legionnaires’ disease in a former patient.


Crystal Spring Tower Opens at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital

The new cardiovascular institute improves access and care across the region.


Hospital Evacuation Highlights Importance of Emergency Preparedness

Berger Hospital was evacuated after smoke was discovered in the basement.


Building a Culture of Infection Prevention

Investing in infection prevention can benefit healthcare organizations and patient outcomes.


Ground Broken on Sanford Health Fargo's Peltier Lodge

The 28,400-square-foot facility will feature spaces to support patients and loved ones during treatment and throughout their outpatient care and monitoring.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.