By Healthcare Facilities Today

Building information modeling (BIM) is gaining attention in the world of medical equipment planning, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management magazine website.

BIM is a method of digital design that allows knowledge-sharing among the design team, contractor and hospital throughout the design and construction process. BIM allows the design team to collaborate on a central model, with the members working independently and collectively. Changes can be realized simultaneously and coordinated more efficiently, according to the article.

Information about size, weight, spatial requirements, manufacturer's details and cost can be embedded into a BIM object. Because a number of attributes can be contained in a BIM virtual-construction process, no information is lost in translation from the design team to the contractor, the article said.

The medical equipment planner should be brought on as early as possible on a BIM-related project, according to the article. The equipment should be placed into the BIM model during schematic design to alert designers of any spatial restrictions. This will reduce the risk of expensive construction rework or a major redesign in the later stages of the project.

Read the article.