By Healthcare Facilities Today

Healthcare Design magazine's "Take Five" series asks healthcare design professionals about what’s got their attention. The magazine recently talked to Quentin Elliott, director of healthcare design at Moody Nolan in Columbus, Ohio. Elliott shared his thoughts on key elements for pediatric ambulatory care spaces.

1. Flexibility for today and tomorrow

Healthcare is changing rapidly and more care will be provided in comprehensive ambulatory care settings. At Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center 9 clinics and nearly 20 service lines are offered which means that some spaces may be used by the orthopedic clinic part of the week and another specialty on other days. 

2. Designing for kids of all ages and patient populations

It’s really about designing for the family unit and using colors, patterns, artwork, and interior features that appeal to all ages. 

3. Safety and security in a welcoming environment

Pediatric spaces need to be friendly, open, and accessible while providing the ability to secure all or portions of the building depending on the time of day. Attention to detail must can contribute to the welcoming setting. For example, a rolling security shutter over a registration window can become a beautiful mural when pulled down in the evening.

4. Community health requires community ties

Pediatric ambulatory centers are not just about providing healthcare services but also about building relationships within the community. Designing these centers for children’s hospitals requires a balance between extending their brand and including visual indicators of the community. 

5. Make it special

Another priority for pediatric ambulatory centers is to make children and their families feel comfortable. The design team needs to think about adding positive distractions that keep children and their families occupied while they wait for appointments.

Read the article.