Using Evidence to Design Cancer Care Facilities

Area of Science:

• Oncology Facility Design
• Healthcare Architecture
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• The physical space, social systems, workflows, and services in cancer care facilities significantly affect clinical quality and patient experience.
• Effective cancer center design requires a holistic approach, integrating various components to support optimal patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline principles for planning and designing cancer care facilities.
• To emphasize the importance of evidence-based design and stakeholder input in cancer center development.
• To guide institutions in creating facilities that align with their commitment to excellent cancer care.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing evidence-based design principles.
• Incorporating input from key stakeholders, including patients, families, and clinicians.
• Tailoring facility design to specific patient populations and institutional constraints.

Main Results:

• Facilities designed with evidence-based principles and stakeholder input can improve patient experience.
• Optimized designs enhance infection control, support multidisciplinary teams, and integrate research and palliative care.
• Well-designed facilities extend beyond diagnosis and treatment to promote overall patient wellness.

Conclusions:

• Cancer facility design is a critical determinant of care quality and patient experience.
• A comprehensive, evidence-based, and collaborative design process is essential for creating effective cancer centers.
• Institutions can achieve excellence in cancer care delivery through thoughtful and iterative facility planning and design.