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We’ve all been there…waiting for our doctor in the Waiting Room. The name itself suggests just exactly what you’ll be doing…waiting. “Welcome to our waiting room,” says the receptionist, “the doctor will be right with you.” So you sit, staring at the person across from you, wondering what illness they have. Nine-month-old magazines and brochures are strewn about, featuring depressing diseases that you don’t want to even think about. The room smells of stale coffee as you begin to wonder “so the doctor will be ‘right’ with me, what does the word ‘right’ mean? 15 minutes? 30 minutes? Maybe never?”

The waiting room experience is often less than enjoyable, rather something we simply tolerate. Instead of thinking in terms of how people feel, waiting room design tradition has told us that the more people we can cram into the space, the more we’ll save on square footage and expenses. As a result, the concept of lining up rows and rows of chairs was born. Research now tells us that 4 common mistakes can be avoided in the design of healthcare waiting rooms. The article linked below provides research confirming that traditional waiting room design is dying and how we can make a positive impact on our patients.

Check out the article on page 46 of the March/April 2016 issue of Medical Design & Construction Magazine.

About Steve Tyink

Steve Tyink leads Miron’s experience-based design efforts, assists with process and lean improvement, and adds elements of innovation to business development and corporate strategies to differentiate the Miron brand. Steve also applies his expertise to serve as a resource to those seeking ways to create innovative facilities that encourage an emotional attachment for their own customers and employees.

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