As healthcare facilities continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, many find new ways to serve their patients more safely and effectively by improving their infrastructures. Improved healthcare facilities can increase health equity by minimizing or eliminating some barriers that stand in the way of individuals receiving the care they need.
Utilizing enhanced AV technology like digital signage and real-time video chats can serve more people by bringing the doctor’s expertise to areas far from the facility. Addressing health equity issues also allows people who may not have a means of transportation to still receive the care they require. Take a look at some key focus areas in strengthening infrastructures that can lead to better patient care.
Architecture
The flow of a building can have significant implications on how easily some individuals can move through them. In the case of hospitals and doctors’ offices, facility layouts should be accessible for people of all abilities. However, the primary focus should always be on the patient and the level of care they receive. And that process starts with analyzing where hospitals can make improvements. Regularly check your hospital infrastructure for faulty equipment, lapses in care, and any opportunities where an innovative solution could result in better care.
Technology
Incorporating more accessible accommodations is more than just architectural. For example, digital screens and AV technology can assist those with visual and hearing impairments. Screens and audio can make complicated medical situations easier to digest when put into mediums the patient is more comfortable using. Additionally, immunocompromised patients can use video chat technology to meet virtually with their doctors. This technology allows them to better socially distance themselves when they need care. Many patients can even connect to their physicians from the safety and comfort of their own homes!
Customization
Enhanced digital infrastructure also opens the door for improved patient care through customization. For example, AV technology in hospitals can allow language translation on-screen and over audio to accommodate a variety of patient backgrounds. Additionally, better digital capabilities in hospital rooms mean that patients can automate their comfort levels by using mechanical controls to adjust patient beds, or intercom systems to communicate more quickly with hospital staff. When patients need care, they shouldn’t have to worry about how to share their needs with a physician. Improved infrastructure in the form of interactive video and translation services can help bridge the healthcare inequity gap while giving patients confidence and added peace of mind.
When healthcare facilities improve their structural framework, they can serve more broadly and uniquely. Customized and robust infrastructures can increase health equity and patient care from architectural improvements to innovative technology.
At IVCi, we aim to streamline operations and preferred patient experiences through technology-backed solutions and support. Contact us today to see how you can build a stronger digital infrastructure for your healthcare facility.
