Hospital architecture in times of crisis

Abstract

In times of crisis, such as public health emergency, military conflict or natural disaster, health systems face immense pressures. Large-scale crises continue to appear at irregular intervals and healthcare facilities should be prepared to react quickly and flexibly to the increased need for treatment and care. This paper aims to outline key concepts related to healthcare architecture during a mass-scale crisis, discuss challenges, and suggest solutions. Although the field lacks robust research evidence, lessons learned from past and ongoing events clearly indicate that advance planning is essential for effective crisis response. The crisis response has three guiding principles -adaptability, flexibility, and creativity. The interventions can focus on adapting existing healthcare facilities, building new units, and repurposing civil facilities for hospitals. A wide range of building typologies can be utilised, including modular containers, tents, lightweight structures, and repurposing civil buildings and public spaces. These interventions must be quick, economic, durable, and easily deployable. Temporary facilities must ensure an effective spatial platform for patients and staff, establish links with existing services, and consider post-crisis life of interventions. While these principles can be considered for any type of healthcare facility and any type of crisis, end-results will depend on baseline infrastructure and available resources.

Keywords: Architecture; COVID-19; Crisis; Disaster; Emergency; Hospital; War.