Medical office space design may seem bound by traditional concepts, a waiting room, reception area, exam rooms and offices, but the future holds more for these antiquated arenas than one might imagine.

Let’s take a look at how some tech trends will affect new design concepts for future physicians and help to reduce medical office space square footage requirements:

On Your Feet

Doctors and designers are recognizing the health risks of some staff being stuck behind a desk all day and offering a practical solution, standing desks. With a wall-mounted adjustable monitor, the computer screen is easily raised and lowered to accommodate, sitting, standing, even kneeling in the workspace.

Changing these positions throughout the day helps increase both circulation and productivity, there are even options that come with a treadmill. These adjustable workstations take up less space than a traditional seated desk area.

The Growth of Handheld Devices

Similar to smartphones, tablets and laptops, diagnostic equipment is also shrinking in size while growing in productivity. For example, in the medical profession, newer high-quality ultrasound devices can be carried in one hand or fit into a pocket, while in dental offices, handheld x-ray machines will be carried from room to room. This will decrease the space necessary for larger examination rooms without the older, bulkier equipment.

Talking Rooms and mHealth

The explosion of mHealth (Mobile Health Devices) will reduce the number of face-to-face doctor visits as more people are using this online option for their healthcare needs. This increase in internet-based medicine will also decrease the number of exam rooms necessary. They will be replaced with “talking rooms” devoid of equipment and further lessen square footage.

If you’re looking for a new, more modern medical office space for your practice, please contact us. We’ll be happy to help you find just the right type of space that will meet your needs both in form and function.