Well-thought-out and designed clinic spaces that enable healthcare professionals do their best work and equally, enhance the patient experience is vital to practice efficiency in today’s world.
This goes without saying when designing for any given sector or specialisation in the healthcare industry. But when it comes to designing for mental healthcare environments, these design considerations become even more crucial.
According to Interite Healthcare Interiors, the following factors must be respected:
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Spaces that are calming. Vibrant and busy spaces can create anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed. It will always be very dependent on the end user, however, tones of soft, natural colours can project calmness when a patient is feeling their most vulnerable.
- Natural light. The buzz felt from warm, natural light can really benefit mood (and sleep). Consider mirrors, natural eggshell neutrals in finishings such as window treatments, walls and flooring. Seek opportunities for added windows or skylights.
- Wayfinding designs. Ensure you give a helping hand to your patient where you can. Feelings of depression and anxiety can cause mind fog so help them on their way with "wayfinding designs." These can be implemented subtly or in a more obvious fashion through signage, flooring and furnishing layout.
- Make it safe. Safety of clinical staff and patients is a priority. Install duress alarms and consider safety exit and entry access points.
- Discretion. Sometimes a quieter waiting place is what your patients might need. Additional waiting spaces that allow discretion and privacy away from others if your space permits a sensible and thoughtful consideration. Incorporating acoustic measures into the design can also assist with confidentiality. Acoustic panelling can be both decorative and functional.
- Refreshments. A hot coffee or tea and a small bite to eat can go a long way. Boost your patient’s mood, energy and senses with a “help yourself” refreshment bar.
- Larger zones. Plan for group collaboration amongst staff and patients. Areas for group programs, family meetings and staff training will set your practice up now and into the future.
- An organised environment. Include in your design smart storage and display solutions. A well-maintained and organised environment creates a positive impression for your clinic and will make you clients feel safe and at ease.
- Social interaction. Apart from the internal group zones, has your facility the space to incorporate a relaxing outside environment where you could possibly host small social events, groups or the patients can take a break during their session?
If you are thinking about renovating or starting a mental healthcare clinic, do not hesitate to get in touch with Interite via a member of our team today or calling 1300 27 33 22.