Location is the foundation of hospital construction. It plays a vital role in a hospital’s operational current as well as future efficiency and the level of care it provides. Healthcare architects have a fundamental and multifaceted impact on the design of hospitals as well as site selection. Their involvement is crucial because of the unique and intricate needs of healthcare institutions.
A well-functioning hospital must have six key facilities:
- Accident and Emergency
- Ambulatory Care (Outpatients)
- Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services
- Inpatient (Nursing) Units
- Administration and Business Offices
- Engineering and Support Services
These functional divisions need careful planning and location selection for ease of mobility, accessibility, safety, and future growth. Here are five important factors to consider while selecting the ideal location for your hospital’s infrastructure.
Accessibility and Approachability
The hospital’s roads should be sufficiently broad to handle ambulances and public transportation. The site should ideally have several entry points and be in the middle of the area. Patients and employees will experience the least amount of delay possible, particularly in emergency situations.
The Size of the Hospital
Site selection also depends on the number of beds, the type of services provided, and the population it serves. A general guideline is that hospitals are categorized as:
- Small (under 100 beds)
- Medium (100-400 beds)
- Large (400+ beds)
The average hospital with 100 beds could need about 600 square feet for each bed, according to NMC. Because larger institutions make better use of common areas, smaller hospitals could require more room per bed.
Land Availability and Topography
There must be enough land for both initial development and future growth of the hospital. More land will be needed for a single-story hospital, but a multi-story building will require less. Based on the structure, take into account the following land requirements:
Single-storey – extensive land
Double-storey – moderate land
3-5 stories – urban-friendly
4-6 stories – suitable for growing cities
6-9 stories – compact yet efficient
Sub-Soil Water Table Consideration
The depth of the subsoil water table is an important but sometimes overlooked factor. An excessively high water table may result in long-term structural problems and delays in construction. The optimal subsurface water level for hospitals wishing to add a basement (for parking, storage, or engineering services) is below 25 feet during mid-monsoon. This ensures the structure’s long-term stability and safety.
Utility Availability – Water and Power
Hospitals are one of the most power and water-intensive facilities. Consistent electricity connectivity and an uninterrupted water supply should be available at the selected location.
Scope for Vertical Expansion
Hospitals frequently grow vertically in response to rising population and healthcare demands. If necessary, the chosen land should be physically assessed and designated correctly to sustain structures up to 9 stories. It is crucial to think about how to introduce more stories without interfering with already-existing services. A strong foundation from the beginning ensures cost-effective expansions in the future.
Takeaways
Hospital planning starts long before the first brick is laid! Every infrastructure decision must promote the longevity, safety, and functioning of the hospital. A well-selected location is essential to the effective delivery of healthcare since it satisfies current demands while also anticipating future needs.
FAQs
Why is the availability of land important for hospitals?
It prevents congestion while providing space for parking, landscaping, emergency services, present facilities, and potential additions.
Is it possible to construct a hospital on a site with a high water table?
Unless waterproofing precautions are taken, it is not advised. Basements become unusable and risk long-term damage.
Why is it necessary for a hospital to have several points of access?
Several routes, particularly in cities, enhance emergency access and prevent traffic jams.
How does geography affect the choice of sites?
Land that is level and well-drained makes construction quicker and easier, as well as improves staff and patient mobility.