In today’s inclusive society, accessibility is no longer an afterthought but a fundamental principle. Healthcare facilities, including dental and medical clinics, should be designed to accommodate people of all abilities and cater to the diverse needs of their patients. Patients benefit from having more accessibility and easier access to facilities to improve their comfort and safety.
In this blog, we’ll explore what universal design is, some of the key features and challenges as well as Canada’s building codes and standards.
Understanding Universal Design
The goal of universal design is to create environments that are as accessible, understandable, and usable as possible. It shouldn’t be a necessity to help only a minority of the population that might be affected by building design. It should be a basic criterion of excellent design.
| Places for Universal Design Upgrades | Universal Design Goals | User Characteristics for Potential Limitations |
| Physical spaces | Accessibility | Age |
| Digital spaces | Understandable | Size |
| Products | Usable by everyone | Aptitude |
| Services | Convenient | Physical Disability |
| Systems | Enjoyable |
Universal design produces constructed and digital environments that satisfy people’s demands, taking into account their variety of needs and skills at every stage of the design process. Ultimately, universal design is just good design.
The Benefits of an Accessible Clinic
There are many reasons to design and operate clinics that are inclusive and welcoming, including but not limited to:
- Enhanced Patient Experience: Accessible clinics can improve patient satisfaction and reduce anxiety.
- Legal Compliance: Adhering to accessibility standards can help avoid legal issues.
- Positive Public Image: A commitment to accessibility can enhance your clinic’s reputation.
- Improved Staff Morale: A well-designed and accessible workplace can boost staff morale and productivity.
Key Features of an Accessible Clinic
There are a variety of features that healthcare facilities can use to create an accessible clinic for their users, regardless of their abilities.
Some examples of accessible features include:
Ramp Access
One of the easiest ways to offer accessibility into your building is providing ramps with appropriate slopes and handrails. This ensures easy access for wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, or those that need a little extra assistance.
Wide Doorways
Another way to offer accessibility is to build your doorways wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices. This is also a great way to accommodate all body types and the ability to offer physical support while moving around the healthcare space.
Non-Slip Flooring
Non-slip flooring materials through the clinic can help reduce the risk of people falling. This is especially important in wet areas like the bathroom.
Adjustable Fixtures
In order to cater to the needs of people of varying heights and abilities, dental or medical clinics can install adjustable examination tables, chairs, and sinks.
Clear Signage
Being in a space that isn’t familiar can become confusing, especially with similar looking hallways and rooms. Using clear and concise signage helps eliminate confusion and guides patients and staff through the facility quickly and easily.
Well-Lit Spaces
If you want your clinic to be safe and visible for all people at all times, it is essential that it is equipped with adequate lighting and that the lights are on, regardless of the time of day.
Accessible Restrooms
In order to accommodate wheelchair users and to provide a little extra assistance to those who may need it, restrooms should be designed to accommodate wheelchairs and include assistive features like grab bars.
Technology and Accessibility
Technology can also play a significant role in enhancing accessibility in healthcare settings.
Consider the following when you’re designing your next healthcare clinic:
- Automated Doors: Automatic doors can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility impairments, muscle weakness, or those carrying awkward or heavy equipment.
- Voice-Activated Systems: Voice-activated systems can be used to control lighting, temperature, and other features, making the environment more accessible.
- Assistive Technology: Provide access to assistive technology devices, such as magnifiers, screen readers, and hearing aids for those that might need a little extra support.
In addition to the features in your clinic, you can make use of technology to conduct telemedicine. This allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, eliminating the need for travel and reducing wait times. This is particularly beneficial for individuals in rural or underserved areas who may have limited access to medical facilities or those with disabilities that make it more difficult to make physical appointments. Telemedicine can also facilitate continuous care and monitoring for chronic conditions, improving overall patient outcomes.
Canadian Building Codes and Standards
In Canada, building codes and standards, such as the National Building Code of Canada (2020), outline specific requirements for accessible healthcare facility design.
These standards cover various aspects, including:
- Accessible Routes: Ensuring clear and unobstructed paths of travel.
- Accessible Parking: Providing designated parking spaces for people with disabilities.
- Accessible Restrooms: Meeting specific requirements for size, fixtures, and grab bars.
- Accessible Entrances: Providing ramps or level access to the building.
- Accessible Interior Spaces: Designing interior spaces to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
By adhering to these standards, healthcare facilities can create inclusive environments that prioritize the needs of all their patients including those that need a little extra help and support.
The Challenges of Implementing Accessible Design
In a perfect world, all buildings would be designed with accessibility in mind without a second thought. But there are some challenges in implementing universal design in clinics. One hurdle that businesses might have to get over is the cost associated with retrofitting existing facilities to meet accessibility standards.
As well, balancing the needs of various patient populations while maintaining a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment can be complex. And finally, staff training is essential to ensure that the inclusive features that are put into your healthcare spaces are effectively utilized and maintained. All these things add up to more investment but it’s worth it in the long run to create an accessible space.
Chriscan’s Accessible Projects
Over the years, we’ve worked on making our building projects more accessible whenever possible in order to better serve a wide variety of users.
Siwoski Dental
This 5,000 square foot clinic has state of the art surgery rooms and wall to wall exterior glass, offering plenty of light, and automated window blinds for easy adjustments. Wide hallways and doorways offer access for all. A private elevator makes it easy to get in and out of the clinic.
Making the Future Accessible
Universal design promotes a more inclusive environment where all patients can receive care with dignity and independence. By investing in accessible design, healthcare facilities can create a welcoming and inclusive environment that benefits everyone. Remember, accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it’s a moral imperative. Get in touch with us to get started on your next accessible dental or medical clinic project.
