Healthcare

Health care facilities encompass a wide range of types, from small and relatively simple medical clinics to large, complex, and costly, teaching and research hospitals. Large hospitals centers may include all the various subsidiary health care types that are often independent facilities. The design of healthcare facilities is governed by many regulations and technical requirements. It is also affected by many less defined needs and pressures. The entire health care system is under great pressure to reduce costs, and at the same time, be more responsive to “customers”. Sustainability must be a consideration for the design of all healthcare facilities. Many sustainable design features can be incorporated into health care facility design, including daylighting, energy and water conservation, nontoxic materials and finishes, and sustainable operations and maintenance.