Healthcare Development

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 To develop a comprehensive snapshot of predictions for the coming years, healthcare leaders, builders, and design experts weighed in on topics ranging from revenue generation and sustainability to cybersecurity and personnel recruitment based on their areas of expertise. 

Several key themes emerged.  First, the current economic environment — high interest rates, staffing and labor shortages, and difficulties securing capital — pose significant challenges for healthcare systems. At the same time, a confluence of unique market conditions is stretching the creativity of commercial contractors. With high construction demand, long lead times, a shrinking workforce, and the increasing frequency of weather conditions, contractors must actively participate in the early stages of project planning to help their healthcare clients meet budget, schedule, and revenue goals.  

Second, healthcare systems, architects, and contractors are working to design facilities that balance both patient- and caregiver-focused elements with the economy of cost per square foot. Healthcare systems must also consider that these spaces contribute to all occupants’ physical and emotional well-being.  Sustainable materials and practices continue to gain steam; however, articulating  their concrete returns has become increasingly complicated. While sustainable  building practices have traditionally reduced operational costs, outcomes from  emerging regulations and other wellness-focused features are more difficult  to quantify.    

Lastly, while new technology enhances efficiency, increases patient comfort, and decreases staff burnout, it presents unique hurdles for healthcare systems.  Connecting with patients has never been more convenient, but safeguarding their data  has never been more difficult.  Despite these challenges, opportunities abound for the healthcare construction  industry. The need for healthcare services remains urgent as the number of patients  continues to trend upward, particularly in regions seeing rapid population increases.  Meeting the growing need for healthcare requires a balanced, collaborative approach to construction. To address each challenge, strategies emerge for  improving operational efficiency — and result in better patient outcomes, a healthier workforce, and a better bottom line.