It is not only large hospitals that suffer from a lack of clear identification. Regardless of the size of your facility, clean and proper signage for exterior entrances is crucial. Close and safe parking, with clear directions to department areas are equally necessary to ensure both new and frequent visitors have a good experience.
Any size hospital can be difficult to navigate for anxiety-filled patients, panicky family members or even the seasoned physician trying to find a department he rarely visits. These situations are easily remedied with clear and concise signage and wayfinding plans; so that anyone arriving at your facility will have less anxiety and a safe, satisfying experience from their very first visit.
As you are aware, the first impression of a healthcare facility is the most important. It is important to review needs for bright lighting and clear readable signage for facility entrances and designated parking areas. With proper sign directions to the main facility or department, the visitor will have no problem arriving with unneeded stress and feeling good about the initial visit experience. Trying to find the Emergency Room or Surgery Center shouldn’t feel like an impossible task.
Of utmost importance is a comprehensive sign system designed with consistency in appearance, terminology and directions, according to Sandie Foland, CEO of Baron Sign Manufacturing, a specialist in healthcare wayfinding sign programs. Foland emphasizes the importance of the integration of signage with printed maps and frequent directions as the visitor navigates throughout the facility’s premises. For a successful wayfinding program, staff must focus on preplanning with a healthcare sign consultant, making it a facility commitment to identify the environment and which priorities will be a part of the total communication program for your special facility.
