The New York Times reports that "geriatric emergency departments" are in vogue in various parts of the United States. A growing trend, the newspaper reports, toward catering to "the medical needs and sensibilities of aging baby boomers and their parents."
According to the article, there is a strong financial incentive to cater healthcare to the elderly. People over 65 represent 15 to 20 percent of emergency room visits.
Similarly, under the Affordable Care Act, Medicare payments will be tied to scores on patient satisfaction surveys — and how frequently patients have to be readmitted to a hospital.
One geriatric ER discussed in the article resembles a clinic more than it does an emergency room. Nonskid floors, rails along the wall, reclining chairs for patients and thicker mattresses to reduce bedsores are all part of the interior design package. Also, to keep the noise down, curtain rings and rods surrounding the beds are made of plastic instead of metal.
Building Envelope Design: Beyond Energy Efficiency
Outpatient Surge Reshapes Long-Term Strategy for Medical Outpatient Buildings
Mercy Medical Center to Be Integrated into Baystate Health
Managing IAQ in Healthcare Facilities During Wildfires
Building Hospital Resilience in an Era of Extreme Weather