While clinical laboratories are among the most important spaces in hospitals, their functional designs seldom get the same attention as more visible areas of the facility, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.
Technological breakthroughs are changing the way clinical laboratories function and also attracting the attention of designers
Automated laboratory lines have streamlined lab processes, allowed for better staff allocation, boosted productivity and reduced errors and cost at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Ind., the article said.
Design changes include open-plan designs, automated testing, biosafety Level 3 and molecular testing.