Investigation of circulation areas depending on spatial planning criteria in healthcare facilities

Abstract

Objective: This paper aims to explore the circulation areas through spatial movement patterns of different sort of users. In the first chapter, the healthcare facility design has been investigated to define the basic design criteria through significant case studies conducted and published reports. Materials and Methods: Studies on the planning of healthcare facilities reveal that the qualified spatial planning, which facilitates functional processes and ensures the integration of users, is based on particular design criteria. An important aspect of healthcare facility design, circulation areas allow the satisfied patient experience and the communication of staff. In order to examine the circulation areas of the healthcare facilities thoroughly, the healthcare facility design has been investigated to define the basic design criteria through significant case studies conducted and published reports. For this purpose, the medium-sized medical center has been examined using the case study method according to the criteria defined in the literature research. Results: In the healthcare facility examined as a case study, it has been observed that spatial planning is determined according to user circulation, departments with special needs are separated from each other and common areas are correctly situated, although they are insufficient at some points. Within the scope of user frequency, it has been noticed that the density increases in front of the vertical circulation elements such as elevators and stairs, while horizontal circulation decreases as users walk to departments and in-department spaces. In this facility, which can be defined as a compact structure, users do not waste excessive time with circulation since the departments are connected both vertically and horizontally. Conclusion: In order to have a more functional and efficient healthcare facility, there is a need for well-designed circulation areas where all users can integrate better and in-hospital process can realize easier. © 2021 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.