Key Points to Design an Orthopedic Specialty Hospital; Implementation of Green Building Standards to Optimize Performance of Orthopedic Units

Abstract

Orthopedic Specialty hospitals (OSHs) provide a larger surgical volume, while improving operative time and length of stay of patients, compared with general hospitals. It has been shown that adverse outcomes are less common in OSHs rather than in general hospitals. The main tips for designing OSHs extracted from the eight selected GB`s guidelines include Indoor environment quality (IEQ) items, ergonomic designing, site selection and surrounding land, climate-responsive designing, access to public transportation, ease of access for patients with ambulation disabilities, well-designed and efficient layout, adjustable features, patient flow optimization, dedicated imaging and X-ray areas, well-designed examination rooms, rehabilitation spaces, supportive flooring, lighting, patient-friendly amenities, Infection control measures, uneven surfaces, elevators, casting rooms, operating rooms and telemedicine. By prioritizing site selection to energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality and healing outdoor spaces, OSHs can minimize their ecological footprint, create healing environments, and promote the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.