The Affordable Care Act is creating a new healthcare design standard, according to an article in the Healthcare Facilities Symposium newsletter. As facilities try to be more efficient, their needs are evolving to reflect the effort by creating an environment that makes patients want to come back. 

Healthcare providers are focusing on designs that make them more patient friendly, including standardizing facilities to appeal to a wider patient base. When considering how to configure a medical facility, perception is reality, the article said. If a space doesn’t appear to be clean and modern, it can impact the patient experience. 

Natural light, music and water features can improve the experience and make people feel more comfortable. Many providers are integrating greenery into common areas, to bring in natural elements that have a calming effect, which can lead to a more positive experience — and more word of mouth referrals, the article said.

Read the article.