Holistic, longitudinal design thinking can optimize the value of a healthcare construction project. The initial investment in a facility has a tremendous influence on operational costs over its lifetime, according to an article on the Hospital Build & Infrastructure website.

Studies say that hospital construction represents just about 1 percent lifetime operational costs in 40 years. An analysis of a major teaching hospital found that patient care is responsible for 70 percent of annual operational costs and 80 percent of its annual income. 

With that in mind, it's clear the 1 percent initial investment in a facility has a tremendous influence on operational costs. So, a thorough project strategy may not only improve care, but also lead to significant savings, the article said.

One way to improve efficiency at the design phase is a virtual walk-through that simulates operational flows and the patient experience while generating comparative data that can inform design plans. 

Read the article.