Sorry in advance for the long post, but you asked for it
There is a variety of issues to be considered when building a new clinic or rehabing an existing property. A new building would be, IMHO, much easier to do mainly because of the de-construction and limitations that you wouldn't have to deal with. Of course, cost will almost always dictate the direction you or your company choose. Anyways, as a Bio-med that has worked with several for-profit centers as well as a non-profit hospital, here's a couple of ideas. The water treatment unit and delivery system: can be designed and installed by any of the water treatment companies that advertise here. They have a wealth of knowledge and can custom fit to your needs. Plan for Ultrapure water and ozone, they will both be the standard. Acid/Bicarb systems: Go centralized loops for both, the nurse's will love you for it. Plan for powder mixing both as shipping, storing and pumping down 55 gal drums will soon be a thing of the past. Call Jack Dillion at Medical Solutions, 1-800-326-5275. Jack and his crew are top notch and also a wealth of information. Plan your water tx, maintenance, biohazardous, electrical/data areas according to your patient load. Example, a 30 station unit running 2 shifts, 6 days a week, 120 patients will need approximately 2300 to 2500, (50 X 50) square feet of area to accomodate the above listed areas, and yes, keep them all together. The closer to the loading dock the better. Keep in mind you will be getting weekly, sometimes daily deliveries and or pick-ups, so centralization is nice. I've worked in units that did not have a loading dock so yes, it's do-able, but if you can design it in, I would do it. You'll be glad you did. Also, your regular waste, (dumpsters) should also be in close proximity to this area. Electrical/other wiring: Plan for expansion and upgrades from the start. If there are areas where you think may one day need extra 20 or 15 Amp service, data ports for paperless charting or internet, patient televisions etc. etc. try to have those worked in during initial construction, it will undoubtely save time and money in the long run. Patient treatment area: Find a well seasoned dialysis nurse and just ask what she would like to see as far as the treatment area, you might not be able to get her to stop
A few things that come to mind are a seperate room for medications,(not required, but CDC recommended), a storeroom attached to the treatment area, saves time for nursing staff, lab room or area with data port for lab weblink,
and consider piping in overhead music. Once again, the staff will enjoy it. Also, don't forget about PD/Home Hemo, they will need space for training and storage. Patient reception/waiting area: Auto-opening doors are a must, there's alot of wheelchair bound patients out there. Plan for wheelchair storage in this area, some patients don't bring their own from home. Patient lockers should be in this area. A covered loading area is also nice. Staff breakroom: Don't scimp here, besides the required stuff,(EOA posters etc.) you should plan on a television, dishwasher, large cap fridge, coffee maker,(commercial grade,not Mr.) and microwave. Remember, the staff need/enjoy their breaks and when the staff is happy, life is much easier. Staff lockers, time-clock and restrooms should be in this area.
Hope this helps.
atticus
