The importance of daylight
Daylight is a powerful source of energy. Without it, depression can easily set in. This may explain why our neighbours to the north, who sometimes go an entire season without daylight, are known for their solemn and sorrowful music.
Daylight can also be an excellent form of therapy, particularly for this sick and the elderly. Modern hospitals and nursing homes, where natural light is a scare commodity, are starting to experiment with dynamic forms of artificial lighting. They are attempting to recreate the natural light we experience throughout the day, from early morning to late evening. These lighting systems mimic our circadian rhythm, thereby reducing our stress levels. While this artificial solution, which has been substantiated by scientific research, certainly benefits the healing process, nothing beats the real deal! And certainly not when paired with a great view. The more daylight and the better the view, the less likely patients will feel trapped or confined. Despite being hospitalised, these patients still feel connected to the outside world.
Holland Hospital Architects created an efficient design for MaasZiekenhuis Pantein that allows for plenty of natural light and outside views, even in the operating room. Flooded with natural light, the building feels bright and cheery. Another added benefit is that it helps reduce the costs and the heating load associated with artificial lighting. This cheery atmosphere contributes to the wellbeing of patients, employees and visitors and has been thoroughly incorporated into their hospitality policy. MaasZiekenhuis Pantein received a four-star hospitality rating, making it one of the top-rated hospitals in the country.
Quality of stay and the quality of service also contribute to this sense of hospitality. Personal attention for visitors and relatives is therefore essential. Patients have a wide range of options with regard to their meals and can expect prompt room service thanks to the cleverly designed kitchens, which are fully equipped with refrigeration, dry storage devices and small multipurpose steamers. Using the bed terminal, patients can select a wide range of additional options from the daily menu at a minor surcharge. This carefully designed concept aims at minimising food waste.
Ultimately, hospitality must be deeply embedded in the entire organisation. Atmosphere and appearance are not the only factors that contribute to a pleasant and welcoming experience; other important aspects include bedside manner, the quality of the doctors and the quality of the staff members. A welcoming environment can have a beneficial impact on the patient’s recovery. The sea of daylight and the wave of hospitality that washes over visitors at MaasZiekenhuis Pantein are investments that will lead to better and more affordable care in the future.