An innovation process involving patients, families, leaders, and staff has formed the foundation for five design principles for Mary Elizabeth's Hospital.
Integrated play
Children do not stop playing 'simply' because they become ill. Play should therefore be an integrated part of Mary Elizabeth's Hospital's design, life, and care pathways. It's not just about playgrounds and play breaks but about integrating play throughout the entire patient journey.
Designed for everyday life
Everyday life is real life. We have to eliminate the feeling of life being at a standstill during hospitalisation. The world inside must be in tune with the world outside. Family rooms should make it possible to maintain daily routines and activities. Children can attend school and see their friends.
See me, ask me, let me
Children and adolescents have the same basic need for recognition as adults. Their feeling of being able to take control of their own situati on can and should be stimulated in as many ways as possible to reinforce and enhance the patients' own resources and skills. In both the treatment processes and daily life at Mary Elizabeth's Hospital, we will ensure that patients and their families are heard, consulted, and allowed to take the lead.
The good journey
The patient's journey should be a positive experience from start to finish. We aim to create a patient journey that begins well, remains seamless, and always feels progressive.
This requires a strong first impression of Mary Elizabeth's Hospital, starting at home with the appointment notification and visit planning. The patient should experience a cohesive, well-coordinated process without difficult transitions between departments, units, centers, and sectors.
Clearly zones
A building that is intuitive to navigate. Architecture, technology, materials, and color choices that signal what you should, may, and can do. The building should guide users more than signs. Consistency and clear lines convey competence and create trust, ensuring that patients feel they are in good hands.
Read more about the design principles and user involvement