Research at the heart of healing

Can a building improve safety, reduce stress, improve effectiveness of care, and help patients and staff be healthier?

Yes, if the building is designed using the principles of evidence-based design.

Similar to evidence-based medicine, which uses research to help physicians and others make clinical decisions, evidence-based design identifies which elements of the physical environment in hospitals contribute to better health for both patients and staff.

We used evidence-based design in our new patient-care tower, including the following features:

Private rooms

Patients have private rooms because evidence shows that single-occupancy rooms reduce the risk of infection and patient stress, while fostering privacy, dignity and communication among patients, families and caregivers.

Dedicated family spaces

Since the presence of loved ones increases patient safety and speeds healing, the new building allows more family involvement in healing and recovery.

A daybed and dedicated family space in each patient room and on each floor allows loved ones to remain nearby, even during treatment.

A chapel on the first floor offers spiritual solace for people of all faiths, and an outdoor landscaped plaza provides a place of respite where patients, visitors and staff can enjoy fresh air, the sounds of running water and garden walks and seating.

Natural views, reduced noise

Based on evidence showing views of nature reduce pain and speed healing, the new tower has large windows for natural views and employs natural colors and materials. Noise levels can be a big stressor, too, so we installed sound-absorbing materials.

Environmentally friendly design and construction

Wherever possible, we followed Green Guide for Health Care™ guidelines. From recycling as much as possible during construction to using energy- and water-saving equipment, patient-care tower construction and design made green practices a priority.

Easy navigation

We also made the hospital and the campus easy to navigate and therefore less stressful for patients, their families and staff. For an overview of campus, see our map.