If you could design a hospital, what would it look and feel like? How would you make the experience better for patients? How would you improve the care you provide there? What advances in medical technology would you include?

These are some of the questions our clinicians and consumers thought about as they helped in the design of the new nine-storey Critical Services Building at Canberra Hospital.

The Consumer Reference Group that was set up at the start of the project has played a vital role providing input into the design process. This group was established to ensure the voices of patients, carers and families were heard.

“We have had an incredible opportunity to make a real difference to the experience our community has in hospital. For a lot of people being in hospital or visiting a sick loved one is a very difficult time. The little things we have done to make this a more comfortable and calming experience will go a long way,” reflected Kate Gorman, Deputy Director, HCCA.

“We set out to create an environment for healing, and I think we’ve achieved it! We wanted a place that felt calm, comfortable, and welcoming. We have rooms with more natural light, access to indoor and outdoor areas for respite and quiet reflection, and places where families can gather, discuss issues and socialise. We put ourselves in the shoes of patients, particularly those from diverse backgrounds and abilities,” said Kate.

“Now that the building is getting closer to being complete – it will be great to see the difference this will make to patients and their families,” said Kate.

Kate Gorman, Deputy Director, HCCA.

Some of the design elements influenced by the Consumer Reference Group include:

• Better patient rooms
  The inclusion of carer zones and beds, dimmable lighting, and dedicated consumer power points in practical places.

• New family spaces
  Multiple family and visitor spaces, including a private family respite lounge (with kitchenette, meeting room and showers), and a patient and carer lounge.

• New Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lounge
  A first for Canberra Hospital with outdoor space and yarning circle. To be located in the existing main foyer in Building 2.

• Improved accessibility
  Accessible design in-patient room ensuites, service counters at wheelchair level, and intuitive wayfinding and signage.

• Emergency Department improvements
  A new reception centre for better patient flows, an improved patient experience with a kid’s play zones and a sensory room.

• Other amenities
  Outdoor gardens, improved public spaces and personal storage.