Real-Life Transformations: How Hospitals Are Enhancing Waiting Areas for Comfort, Inclusivity, and Wayfinding

For the last in our series, (catch up on part 1 and part 2) we’re exploring some real-life examples of how Trusts across the country have worked with Ocura to enhance their waiting areas. Within this blog we’ll cover inclusivity at Kings College London, complimentary colour schemes at Ipswich Hospital and clever co-ordinated wayfinding at Whittington Hospital. 

Throughout all three of these examples, it’s clear that each Trust had the end user’s needs in mind. This is important to consider and bring to the forefront throughout the entire process. From initial consultation through to delivery, keeping the user in mind is key to a successful waiting room upgrade.

Wayfinding Solutions for the Outpatients Unit of Whittington Hospital

The Outpatients Unit of Whittington Hospital wanted to upgrade their well-used beam seating to complement the freshly decorated space. A lot of work went into refurbishing the area so the team at Whittington Hospital turned to Ocura’s expertise to select the ideal seating option. 

The Trust wanted to utilise Ocura’s wide selection of colours to enhance their wayfinding for patients and visitors. Throughout the waiting area there are dedicated spaces for patients to wait in depending on their appointment need. By using the colours of the seats, Whittington Hospital was able to help customers understand which area to wait in. 

Commenting on the installation, a spokesperson of the Outpatients Unit said, ​“The beam seating in several different colours has given us the opportunity to help patients know they are waiting in the correct areas.” They also added, ​“Our regular patients have said how lovely the place feels now.” 

This is just one example of how colour can be used within a waiting area. Read more about Whittington Hospital here.

Co-ordinated Colours for the Breast Care Centre at Ipswich Hospital 

Improving patient pathways and experience was a key driver for the waiting area project at the Breast Care Centre, Ipswich Hospital. The reprovision of breast services from across the hospital was to be moved to one dedicated facility bringing together clinics, treatment, diagnostics and imaging, administrative support, and consultation under one roof for all breast services. 

Working with Ocura meant that Ipswich Hospital had a team of experts to lean on which resulted in the installation of our popular Arvada chairs. Multiple colours were chosen to brighten up the area making it feel ​‘less clinical’ and more welcoming for users. Additionally, the Arvada was able to meet high Infection Prevention & Control requirements, leaving the team reassured this was taken care of. 

Both staff and patients have commented on how refreshing the new chairs look, along with the comfort they offer. Discover more about this story here.

Inclusivity at Kings College Hospital, London 

In the midst of the pandemic, King’s College Hospital turned to Ocura for advice about enhancing their existing waiting room to meet comfort needs and inclusivity for all users. 

As mentioned in our second blog of the series, inclusive seating, no matter your size, age or ability, is non-negotiable. Creating a seamless experience for bariatric users was crucial for Kings College Hospital so the Equala range was selected. This range of seating aligned with the values of the Hospital whilst meeting their project goals. 

Speaking after the installation, the Assistant Facilities Manager said, ​“Our new Ocura chairs and tables have transformed our patient waiting area. Delivery and installation were both quick and easy. “ 

“The various combinations of seating that were available (bariatric and standard seating in the same unit for example) has allowed us to cater to all our various patient groups and create social distancing without the need for horrible signs on the chairs. The seats look good and are comfortable.” 

“They are easy to clean, quickly demonstrated when a patient dropped their coffee on one the first day they were out. It was cleaned up quickly and there was no damage or marks on the chair. We are very happy with our purchase.” 

Read more about how Kings College Hospital implemented equality in their waiting room here.

No matter what your waiting room goals are, Ocura is on hand to help you deliver those goals through high-performing furniture and best utilised space plans.

Get in touch with our team today to discuss your requirements.

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