CORGAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Firm's role on the project: Planning, Programming, Architecture, Design, Interiors
EBD Goal
To create a patient-centered healthcare facility, using EBD.
Objectives included:
- Wayfinding integrated into the architecture
- Zoned circulation - separation of on-stage and off-stage flow
- Clear access to patient care areas with minimal travel distances
Challenge
The client needed to combine several locations with distinct identities into one 71,000 square foot, two story federally qualified healthcare clinic in Conroe, TX. The multidisciplinary clinic would provide comprehensive care, offering the services of family medicine, OB/Gyn, dentistry, imaging, pharmacy and laboratory as well as counseling and patient education for the WIC (Woman’s, Infants, and Children) program, diabetes care management and other chronic diseases. The facility would also incorporate teaching space for a primary care residency program. The objective was to design a healthcare facility that is distinctive and modern in design and easily accessible with clear way-finding for a range of patient populations.
Solution
With the opportunity for new construction, way-finding was integrated from the initial concept and site plan throughout the implementation of the project. The sweeping curved, stone accent wall along the entry, guides visitors and creates a central circulation zone from which all services are accessed. Once patients enter any of the five practice area pods, waiting areas are intimate and travel distances within the pods is minimal. Physician and staff circulation is routed along the outer rim of the clinic. The pharmacy has been positioned near the entry for easy access. The imaging department and lab are centrally located in proximity to the pods, so patients do not have to walk long distances to access these services.
Other considerations:
- Patient privacy with acoustical intervention above the ceiling and in exam room walls
- Day lighting and views integrated into staff work areas
- Indoor air quality improved with PVC free wall protection
- Infection control enhanced with walk off matts at all entryways
These evidence based design features are expected to result in improved operational efficiency and reduced patient anxiety enhancing the overall patient experience.