Healthy air in doctors' offices begins with high-quality air cleaning
The indoor air quality in a doctor’s office is subject to many of the same challenges as a home or business in the same geographic area. Outdoor air pollution drifts indoors and thus becomes indoor air pollution. As a result, the air quality in doctors’ offices near freeways or other sources of air pollution will reflect the poor air quality outdoors. This can cause discomfort for patients, especially those who are suffering from respiratory conditions such as allergies or asthma.
In addition, doctors' offices and waiting rooms can experience higher levels of airborne viruses, bacteria and other contaminants as a result of many patients waiting or in consultation. Because patients with immunocompromised systems are often present, extra care must be given to protecting their health by creating and maintaining a high level of indoor air quality.
Air quality can affect your staff
In addition to protecting patients, the doctor’s office must consider the effect of poor indoor air quality on the physicians and staff. One study showed that while workers in Canada miss an average of 6.7 days of work each year for health reasons, the rate for health-care workers is 11.8 days per year. In this context, cleaner, healthier air in the doctor’s office has an important potential economic benefit too.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control found that deadly viruses such as C. difficile, typically found in hospitals, is also present in doctor and dentist offices, and has been found on patient chairs and examining tables. The presence of these viruses poses a risk for staff as well as patients.
Airborne viruses and bacteria can settle anywhere
Family medicine and pediatrician offices may opt to have “sick” and “well” waiting areas, but often that is not an option. Once viruses are airborne, they can settle almost anywhere in the environment. Magazines, office brochures, clipboards, doorknobs and even pens may host viruses and bacteria as well. That's why it's important to address the transmission of these microorganisms in the air.
An IQAir air purifier in your waiting room and exam rooms thus has important benefits for doctors, staff and patients. The comfort and health of patients and staff will benefit when steps are taken to provide an abundant supply of clean, healthy air. IQAir is proud to count hundreds of physicians among its loyal customers and has created an affiliate program for doctors. The Affiliate Program offers substantial benefits to the practice and its patients, and provides tools and support necessary for success.