Objectives

The following key planning concepts were developed using information gathered at various stakeholder sessions during the programming process, and have guided the development of the Functional Program.

These concepts, together with the Guiding Principles, are intended to inform the planning and design in serving the functional, operational and aesthetic objectives of the new Centre of Excellence.

Create an Integrated Health Centre of Excellence

Work with stakeholders to accommodate all programs and services within one integrated Health Centre.
Plan component adjacencies that foster linkages between programs and encourage a collaborative spirit among care providers.
Design for the functional and efficient delivery of services that reflect the needs of the community.

Provide a Healing Environment

Provide a holistic, culturally integrated wellness environment that recognizes the relationship of the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of the person.
Design spatial elements which stimulate the mind and senses, lift spirits and engender well-being.
Maximize the use of daylight and access to calming views that reflect the region’s landscape and watercourses.
Create an architecture of healing that inspires hope and fosters community.

Accommodate Traditional Healing Practices

Design a Health Centre that will support the integration of traditional and western medicine.
Provide dedicated spaces where knowledge keepers and Elders can lead teachings, offer culturally specific counselling and facilitate ceremonies and spiritual practices.
Incorporate health and safety measures that will accommodate traditional ceremonies.

Create a Sense of Place

Work with the community to create a Health Centre that respects and represents the context, the culture and the people of Norway House in its form and function.
Incorporate materials that reflect the natural surroundings of the region.
Integrate artwork that is culturally appropriate to enhance the healing environment.

Optimize the Flow of People, Information and Materials

Implement Lean health care principles to facilitate the delivery of efficient and effective workflows and processes, eliminate waste and optimize workforce utilization.

Design for Adaptability and Flexibility

Design spaces and systems that support innovative and collaborative ways of working, accommodate new and emerging technologies and allow for changes in use and activity.
Design the structure and systems to accommodate changes with limited disruption.
Provide standardized spaces and services that can be used for multiple purposes.
Provide adequate open site area to accommodate future growth.

Provide a Safe and Secure Environment

Design an environment that is accessible, usable and convenient to use regardless of age, size, ability or disability.
Incorporate materials and systems that will facilitate infection prevention and control.
Design environments that control acoustics and respect patient and care provider privacy.

Create a Healthy, Sustainable Building

Design to promote healthy and sustainable healthcare delivery.
Establish and implement best practice criteria for sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality.
Design a building that has minimal impact on the site.
Design a building that uses durable building materials, operational practices and energy considerations to promote environmental quality, health and productivity.