Six in 10 Americans delay seeking medical attention. This is because they have fears of the unknown and anxiety surrounding potential illnesses and would rather not know than face the doctor's office. 

When people eventually do make the trip to a healthcare practitioner, it's important that the environment is as stress-free as possible. 

Medical office interior design can help to ease patients' fears and anxieties, and it's important that it's done right. Keep reading for the essential healthcare design dos and don'ts so that you can give your patients the best. 

Consider Privacy and Patient Protection

One of the key considerations in medical office design is the privacy and comfort of the patient. In order to reduce patient anxiety, it's important that the design prioritizes spaces that allow for complete privacy. 

Privacy goes beyond closed doors. Imagine if everyone in the waiting room could hear the details of a patient's consultation through the walls. This would be a massive breach of privacy. A doctor's office should have rooms that contain noise-canceling features and soundproofing. 

Choose Chairs Over Couches

A lot of people find visiting medical offices stressful, from dentists to psychiatrists; it can be an uncomfortable experience. Therefore, it's paramount to provide patients with a waiting room that doesn't exacerbate this discomfort. 

Many people want to avoid interacting with strangers and dislike having to share a couch with them. Providing chairs instead of couches ensures that patients have personal space and are not forced into any uncomfortable situations or interactions. 

Medical Office Interior Design Features

Who says that medical offices need to be bare and sterile? In fact, it's better if they are the opposite! Small decor and design touches can create a comforting and warm environment for patients. 

Avoid the typical white and neutral medical office colors and add splashes of color to the rooms. You can do this with a statement wall, indoor plants, and art on the walls. 

Create a comforting environment with natural light and inviting furniture, but don't overcrowd the room. The space should still feel clean and functional to ease patients' worries.  

Opt for Larger Exam Rooms 

Medical construction should take into consideration a patient's needs first and foremost.

Due to the nature of doctor visits, many patients prefer to go into a consultation with a friend or family member for moral support. Of course, this is almost always the case with parents and children. 

Designing larger exam rooms will help to accommodate more people without the room becoming claustrophobic. 

What's more, larger exam rooms make it easier for the doctor to move around. 

Patient-First Design Decisions 

When considering medical office interior design decisions, always have the patient front of mind. What will help to ease anxieties? Are there any features that could make a patient feel uncomfortable? With these questions in mind, you can't go wrong. 

If you're worried about getting it right, why not let us help? We are an all-in-one architecture and construction firm that specializes in medical office design and construction. Get in touch today!