Medical Construction Mistakes: Common Errors to Avoid

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5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Your Medical Practice

Building a medical practice is a major undertaking, and avoiding common mistakes can ensure a smoother, more successful process. Those who have navigated construction projects understand there are many critical factors beyond the physical build itself. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, view each challenge as an opportunity for success. In this article, we’ll uncover the five most common medical construction mistakes to avoid when establishing your medical practice.

Mistake 1: Not Involving the Right People in The Process

Building a medical clinic involves more than just hiring the right contractor; assembling the right project team is equally important. A successful team should include experts such as an architect, project manager, designer, and consultants. When selecting contractors, look for those with experience in healthcare facility construction to avoid medical construction mistakes. Familiarity with industry standards, regulations, and specific requirements for medical clinics is essential. Make sure the contractor is licensed and has the necessary credentials to perform construction projects in your area. Additionally, check for any complaints or disciplinary actions against them to ensure a smooth construction process.

Choose staff members who are invested in the same vision as you—success for your practice and exceptional patient care. From your receptionist to your office manager, having a reliable team is crucial for smooth operations. To avoid medical construction mistakes, ensure your team is well-trained and ready to handle any challenges. Map out every role you need to fill, post enticing job ads online, and pay attention to personality during the interview process. When patients walk through your doors, your staff should reflect the positive impression you want to project about your practice.

Mistake 2: Poor Budget Estimation & Allocation

Starting a practice will require an investment of money as well as your time and energy. Failing to determine the actual costs of building a practice is one of the 5 most common mistakes you can make. You need to determine these costs while designing the practice, so you can get a loan for the right amount. Insufficient funds can result in delays, compromised quality, or even halted construction.

The best way to evaluate these costs is to get bids from contractors who understand your local building codes and the demands of a practice. Work with experienced construction estimators who understand the specific requirements of medical clinic construction. Consider historical cost data from similar projects and factor in contingencies for unexpected expenses.

Mistake 3: Not Picking the Equipment and Furniture Carefully

Choose equipment and furniture that are functional and ergonomic to support the specific needs of medical professionals and patients. Consider adjustable features to accommodate various user preferences and body types. Ensure that all equipment and furniture meet regulatory standards and comply with healthcare guidelines. This includes safety standards, infection control measures, and any other relevant regulations specific to the medical industry. Select equipment that integrates seamlessly with technology, such as electronic health records (EHR) systems, diagnostic tools, and communication devices. This helps streamline workflow and enhance patient care. Ensure that all equipment and furniture are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes considerations for wheelchair accessibility and adjustable examination tables.

Mistake 4: Not Factoring in Supply Chain and Delivery Times

Factoring in supply chain and delivery times is a critical aspect of successful medical clinic construction. Failing to consider these factors can lead to delays, increased costs, and disruptions to the overall project timeline. Start the planning and procurement process early in the project. Identify the required materials, equipment, and furniture, and work closely with suppliers to establish realistic delivery schedules. Maintain open communication with suppliers throughout the construction process. Inform them of project timelines and milestones to ensure they can align their production and delivery schedules accordingly.

Mistake 5: Ignoring The Importance of Safety Protocols

Stay informed about and comply with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to construction site safety. This includes regulations from occupational health and safety agencies. Develop a comprehensive safety plan before construction begins. This plan should outline potential hazards, emergency procedures, and safety protocols specific to medical clinic construction. Before the construction start, you should make sure that all the workers go through training on infection control measures. And this is another reason why you should work with the right contractor who already has an experience in the industry – they should be aware of the procedures & protocols and know how to protect the site from dust. They should also know about the right infection control measures and what they need to avoid.

Team Medico design to comply with Canadian Standard Association (CSA) standard, CSA Z8000, Canadian Healthcare Facilities–Planning, Design, and Construction.

Conclusion

Healthcare project management is a thrilling roller coaster ride filled with peaks of success and valleys of challenges. However, by being aware of these common mistakes and adopting proactive strategies, clinic owners can transform these challenges into stepping stones towards success, ultimately improving patient care and enhancing organizational processes.

If you have any questions about clinic design and construction, please reach out to our friendly team.