Staff, Patient, and Designer Perspectives on Outpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Environments: A Pilot Study

Objectives Recognizing the limited research and design guidelines for these essential health care settings, this study gathered pilot data on the design of outpatient rehabilitation therapy (RT) facilities as a foundation for future research. Background Providing RT is core to addressing health conditions that might otherwise lead to higher and more costly levels of medical intervention. The World Health Organization estimates that 2.4 billion people worldwide would benefit from RT; however, only half receive care. As a result, more space may be sought for ambulatory clinics and hospital-based settings that cater to both inpatients and outpatients. Methods Interviews ( n = 21) and questionnaires ( n = 43) involving RT patients and staff and RT facility designers were conducted with overlap between the interview and questionnaire participants. Both methods explored amenities and features of RT environments. Results Among the findings, there were several significant differences regarding the importance and effectiveness (presence) of specific environmental elements. Additionally, there were some significant differences among patients, staff, and designers in terms of their perceptions of importance and effectiveness. Conclusion Eight potential design guidelines are suggested, rather than recommended, as of yet. They are topics for future research and include the provision of an appropriate balance of private and shared spaces, acoustical treatment of open therapy areas, efficient and restorative staff areas, outdoor spaces, window views and daylight, flexible lighting, and appropriate furniture and wall coverings.