BUILDINGS: Why Acoustics Matter So Much in Medical Facilities

When it comes to healthcare environments, acoustics are imperative. It can promote patient healing and rest, reduce medical errors, and enables staff members to communicate and collaborate collaboratively. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing acoustics. Healthcare facilities are among the most difficult buildings to achieve optimal acoustics. Aside from specific design requirements and plenty of hard surfaces, there are several factors to consider. This includes the selection of materials and applications that are durable for highly trafficked areas and easy to clean for infection control measures. BUILDINGS recently interviewed Megan McNally, associate director of interior design for Ryan Architecture + Engineering, about the acoustical challenges and go-to strategies for healthcare. Learn why acoustics matter in healthcare by clicking here to read the article in its entirety.