By Charles Michelson, AIA, ACHA, LEED AP

As part of the ever-changing landscape of healthcare design, new technologies and products contribute to and improve the design of healthcare buildings.

The focus of healthcare design continues to shift towards patient-centered care. This approach considers the comfort and well-being of patients as a top priority. New behavioral health products, such as comfortable furniture, soothing color schemes and noise-reducing materials, are used to create environments that promote healing and reduce stress.

The use of modular and flexible design elements, including moveable partitions and furniture, allows healthcare buildings to be easily reconfigured to accommodate new treatment modalities and technology, and the changing needs of the patient.

While better technology is used to improve patient care, there is a sophistication of the systems that require different interactions and knowledge of the public receiving healthcare. Patient portals, patient navigators, instructional information, and process assistance become components of the design in order to improve the process and maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of medical treatment.

Health projects are often designed with compliance in mind, meeting specific regulations and standards related to health care. Every healthcare facility design must ensure compliance with these standards to provide appropriate care and support.

Our design work doesn’t stop there.

Additional therapeutic opportunities come from incorporating elements from nature, art, and other therapeutic aspects into healthcare design that can enhance the healing process. Therapeutic and behavioral health products may include art installations, interactive computer systems, natural lighting, and therapeutic gardens to create a calming and supportive atmosphere.

New healthcare design projects will pay special attention to accessibility, diversity and inclusion. There are healthcare design elements, spatial arrangements, and process analysis that contribute to the creation of inclusive spaces with furniture, sensory-friendly design elements and environmental controls that can be adjusted on an individual basis.

Privacy and dignity continue to be a premier design consideration. The layout of spaces and the selection of furniture and equipment can improve primary areas for consultation and treatment ensuring that patients feel respected and valued.

Ultimately, by staying current on design trends for medical facilities, our healthcare facilities will better meet the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers will promote healing and well-being.

Charles Michelson is President of Saltz Michelson Architects. For more information, visit www.saltzmichelson.com.