1. Optimize Storage System
Finding adequate storage can often be a challenge for medical clinics when space is tight. Use these tips to optimize your storage system.
Built-in storage: Built-in storage is an excellent way to maximize space while keeping the clinic organized. For instance, you can create a built-in shelving unit that is customized to fit your clinic’s specific needs. This can be used to store supplies, equipment, or even files.
Multi-purpose furniture: The Multi-purpose furniture is a game-changer when renovating to maximize space in a clinic with limited room. Choosing furniture that serves multiple functions helps optimize the available space and keeps everything organized. For instance, instead of using two separate desks, opt for one with a built-in computer monitor and a keyboard tray. A bench with built-in storage can serve as patient seating while also providing space for supplies. Additionally, desks with built-in storage are perfect for keeping files and office essentials organized, maximizing both functionality and space efficiency.
Mobile storage: Mobile storage solutions, such as carts or cabinets on wheels, can be an excellent solution for small clinics with limited storage space.
Utilize vertical space for storage: When space is limited, it’s essential to make use of vertical space. Consider using shelving units or wall-mounted displays to showcase your products. This will help maximize the display area without taking up valuable floor space.
2. Restructure Traffic Flow to Improve Productivity
The arrangement of your exam rooms and waiting area can encourage patient interactions and engagement level so plan your traffic flow accordingly.
Traffic flow in one direction: The ideal office layout is a loop that leads away from the reception area and back to it. If all the traffic is going in the same direction, traffic jams are eliminated and there is less chatter in the hallway. Patients need less direction and are more likely to keep moving. Minimizing a physician’s non-productive, time-wasting patient interactions in the hallway allows more time for focused attention on the patient in the exam room.
A good design is driven by a clear understanding of its purpose. If possible, have a separate entrance for physician and staff. This layout separates the flows of patients and staff.
Furnishings to Promote Patient Engagement: Every aspect of furnishings must be carefully considered, encompassing their arrangement, shapes, and types. Essential furniture like desks, examination tables, and chairs should be strategically arranged to foster productive interaction and facilitate proper eye contact between patients and examiners.
- Mount computers on the wall on a swivel arm or use laptops so your team is free to shift their position to face the patient.
- Instead of communicating with the patient on the examination bed throughout the appointment, have a space for chair so they can sit at eye-level with their physician and make eye contact with them.
- Hang patient education material on the wall in examination rooms.
- Design the waiting room based on traffic volume and average number of patients at any given time. No many chairs or not enough chairs can decrease patient comfort.
3. Create An Engaging Environment
Reconfigure patient examination rooms so that they are welcoming and spacious. The following tips will help your practice create a calm environment that makes your patients feel involved and welcome:
- One of the simplest ways to make a space feel larger is to add natural lighting with additional windows.
- Use light, warm-colored paint on the walls can make patients feel comfortable.
- Brighten up a consultation room with additional lighting or soften harsh lighting with dimmer bulbs.
- Consolidate and declutter the space. Clear the walls and tables of any unused materials.
- Organize patient education materials so they are visible to patients when they are seated.
- Place examination tables on an angle to use the wall space for additional seating.
