Public consultation played a key role in shaping the look and feel of the new Women's Hospital. Here is a brief overview of the suggestions offered up during public consultations and how they were incorporated into the design.
| What You Said |
What We're Planning |
| Welcoming, calming, restful, homelike environment |
Touchstone for all planning and design
Privacy
Respectful of cultural and spiritual diversity, birthing options, patient experience / journey
Calming / welcoming
Family-centred and child-friendly
Home-like
Accessible - universal design
Environmentally friendly - LEED Silver
Easy to navigate
Separate areas for "back-of-house" activities, such as supply delivery
Casual seating areas, waiting rooms and family lounges throughout |
| Make accommodations for low-risk and high risk births, gynecological and palliative care experiences more comparable |
All inpatient rooms are home-like, with windows, to provide natural light
Private bathroom
Medical equipment stored away when possible
Telephone, TV and Internet access
"Baby zone" in maternity rooms for bassinets and infant care needs |
| Accommodations and resources for partners and support people |
Inpatient rooms incorporate a "family support zone" that includes a sleeping area for one support person and seating areas
Family lounges throughout
Access to food services, coffee and snack areas, as well as fridges
Retail space for food and other services |
| Ability to connect with nature |
Lots of windows, natural light throughout
Rooftop patio and garden |
| Proximity to range of medical and relevant services |
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit will be located in same building
Building located across street from Children's Hospital, critical care and other hospital services connected by tunnel and skywalk |
| Convenient parking |
Surface parking and convenient drop-off at front door
Underground parking level |
| Enhanced safety and security |
Information desk and security at main entrance 24/7
Security badges for visitors
Decentralized workstations so health-care professionals are closer to the patients |
| A welcoming entrance and comfortable waiting areas |
Reception desk and greeters at the main entrance will help guide patients and visitors
Accessible waiting area throughout with natural light |
| Designate space for spiritual care |
Ceremonial room for smudging and other ceremonies
Non-denominational spiritual room
Access to outdoor rooftop patio |
| Environment that supports staff |
Best-practice designs for:
Access to computer charting
Confidential discussions
Teaching opportunities
Telehealth capabilities
Areas for rest and rejuvenation |
