Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Kit N. Simpson

Second Advisor

Annie N. Simpson

Third Advisor

Kim Cotter Fuchs

Abstract

The assessment of space needs in healthcare facilities has become a growing issue as a result of COVID-19 and its impact on the US healthcare system. Healthcare leaders and facility decision makers have a unique opportunity to evaluate space needs by rightsizing and adapting to reflect current and future pandemic-related events. This paper aims to support the decision-making process by presenting an integrative developmental model of a conceptual framework conceived through a synthesis of the existing literature. Three major dimensions have been identified in the Findings which serve as a foundational guide to addressing space needs: processes, people and the built environment. Processes: highlights operational-enablement activities and the need to redefine tasks across the spectrum of on-site to remote; the potential to reengineer directional flow of people through facilities and how people arrive and wait; infection and prevention controls (IPC) through proximity parameters and cleaning protocols. People: considers patient mix through evaluating degree of patient segmentation and desired utilization levels for healthcare services; worker engagement and how spaces will encourage productivity, collaboration and flexibility; visitor management through enhanced communication efforts and outlining accessibility and tracking needs. Built environment explores elements of space planning including agile design, spatial configuration and touchless functionality; the impact of technology through again, touchless functions, level of infrastructure and changing privacy and security implications; facility components through the intensified role of mechanical systems, signage to support major processes and reworking of furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E).

Rights

All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.

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