From Challenges to Innovations: Expert Insights in Pediatric Healthcare Design

Background: Pediatric healthcare design increasingly addresses clinical and psychosocial needs, highlighting the role of spatial, technological, and environmental factors in supporting patient well-being. Emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), show potential for improving patient engagement and healthcare operations, though adoption remains challenged by privacy, ethical, and implementation barriers. Objectives: This study explores current trends, barriers, and future directions in pediatric healthcare design, focusing on patient-centered care, adaptability, emerging technologies, and participatory design strategies. Methods: Fifteen experts-including architects, pediatric nurses, child life specialists, and healthcare administrators-were interviewed via Zoom using a semi-structured format. Purposive and snowball sampling facilitated recruitment, and thematic analysis was conducted to extract key themes. Results: Experts highlighted the evolution of family-centered and culturally responsive design, emphasizing the need for privacy-conscious, adaptable spaces that support neurodivergent children and behavioral health needs. Biophilic and sustainable design were seen as essential for creating calming environments and supporting long-term well-being. While VR and AI offer promise in enhancing patient experiences and operational efficiency, privacy concerns, costs, and regulatory concerns remain key barriers. Infection control measures, while critical, were seen as potentially conflicting with patient-centered and socially supportive environments. Interdisciplinary collaboration and participatory design methods were underscored as key to addressing complex design challenges. Conclusions: Future pediatric healthcare design will prioritize flexibility, inclusivity, and a public health approach, balancing clinical safety with emotional and psychological well-being. Ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration and adaptive design strategies will be critical in creating environments that enhance patient experience, caregiver support, and healthcare efficiency.