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Date of Award
2005
Document Type
Thesis
Handle
https://hdl.handle.net/10365/33089
Publisher
North Dakota State University
Rights
NDSU policy 190.6.2
URI
https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf
Abstract
Far too often the meaning of architecture for health care has been focused on the notion of a provider (system)— center care instead of a patient—centered care. This paper will explain the notion of how crucial the relationship is between both. Those buildings that achieve a balance between the two have arrived at a state of equality and become symbols of civic pride. More specifically, this study will take place on the island of St. Thomas. The hospital of the island has been scorned for its deplorable condition both inside and out. It was not uncommon for the newspapers to report about the dire hospital medication and supply shortages, antiquated medical equipment, a shortage of physician specialists, and a building quickly going to ruins, which lead to the threat of de-certification by Federal officials. Under the constant barrage of negative publicity, the public confidence in the hospital was shaken. I am taking the initiative of transforming a hospital that has been neglected far too long, and create a facility in which the islanders will feel comfortable in the hospital environment which has become a spiritual sanctuary in which to heal.
Recommended Citation
Helland, Heather, "Humanizing Architecture for Healthcare: Designing a Balance Between System Centered and Patient Centered Architecture" (2005). Architecture Theses. 585.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/585