Colchester East Hants Health Centre changed the way care is delivered in Atlantic Canada. Taking its cues from tradition models of care and transforming the design to a patient-centered model. This model provides a therapeutic, home-like environment for patients, supported by efficient operations for staff.
The regional low-rise hospital contains 124 beds within five inpatient units. The units are supported by medical, surgical, palliative care, mental health, critical care, emergency and ambulatory care services. A light-filled galleria greets visitors, staff and patients and is the main gathering point in the hospital.
“I really like the idea and concept …. The five vital signs for healthy salutogenic design really resonate for me. As we spend more time in our new building, the relationship between the vital signs and a healthy environment become stronger. Having just come through our first summer of living here, the vitality and health promoting effects of the building are strong and growing.” Peter McKinnon, Nova Scotia Health Authority
The building design provides a strong connection to the outdoor environment. The orientation around a central healing garden with additional courtyards created at the linkages between the various building components provides consistent views to the outdoors. By placing an emphasis on incorporating exterior spaces of respite into the health care campus, patients and staff benefit from the connection to the natural environment. This exposure promotes healing in patients and assists in the general wellbeing of staff.