These past few months have reshaped the way we think and live. Without a doubt, we are now entering a “new world”, a state that we must choose to adapt to – not fear – and an opportunity to rise above the occasion.
Transforming your medical practice involves conscious decisions and an open-mind for change to create a future-proof space for healing. Here, we will walk you through some tips on how you can seamlessly elevate your practice with medical interior design.
Patient Experience
Creating a positive patient experience is one of the key objectives of medical interior design. Intentional decisions that cater to your patients’ needs help them feel more connected, less anxious and open to heal. Here are some simple tips to improve patient experience within your medical space:
- Replace the usual stiff reception desks with an iPad Check-in concierge. This efficient and space-saving alternative to wide reception spaces can easily be used by patients and elevates the experience of the check in process. The key is to give, not to take.
- Refreshments are a great way to welcome your patients and guests into your facility. To avoid clustering, provide single-serve alternatives like bottled water instead of providing a coffee bar or water refilling station.
Safety
Practicing safety protocols and inspiring confidence instead of fear is our first line of defense in this pandemic. This also holds true in how medical interior design can impact your facility’s readiness to provide a safe and secure place for your patients. Here are some ways that you can establish safety with design in your practice:
- Reconfigure your space in order to promote social distancing., reconfigure spaces where your patients usually congregate such as the lounge area. When choosing tables for your waiting area, choose the round variety as they have no edges and help direct flow better.
- UV Lighting – disinfection plays a big role in making sure that your medical space is a safe environment for your patients. Choose materials that can help you disinfect your facility such as UV lighting that can be effective in applications such as sterilizing tools, drinking water, and in air purification.
Comfort
For many people, visiting any medical facility can be an anxious activity. Understanding patient psychology can help you be better informed and appreciate the role of environment on making your patients more comfortable and relaxed.
Indoor air quality matters. A comfortable space for your patients is not just beautiful, but one that they can breathe in comfortably. To keep indoor air quality clean and fresh, always look out for Zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) certifications on all interior materials whether it is wood, paint or furniture to ensure that no harmful toxins were used.
As we progress, always keep in mind that your facility reflects your brand, your vision and your purpose. Improve and innovate with intent, make your practice something you are proud of.
About the Author
Mitra Silva
Ms. Silva is the founder and CEO of Simour Design, a medical interior design firm. She built a specialized team of designers that create intentional and transformational medical spaces for world-class clients. Simour Design specializes in plastic surgery centers, medical spas, and all areas of the medical field. Named by Ariana Huffington’s Thrive Global as an accomplished C-Suite executive, Ms. Silva designs for clients from Beverly Hills to New York City and everywhere in-between. For bonus tips and insights on practice design, visit our website at www.simourdesign.com.
