The inevitable partnership between healthcare practice and healthcare buildings

In this paper, the author points out the tightly-woven relationship between the healthcare provider and the facilities in which the care takes place. This relationship has evolved from the earliest days of organized medicine. Further, he asserts that in these days of reform and of heightened consumer expectations, the facilities controlled by the provider are among his most important assets. Examples cited cover intensive care settings, ambulatory care, and patient-focused care concepts. The author concludes by speculating on the form that the healthcare facilities of the future might take and on some strategies that the provider might follow.