Top 4 Tips
Refurbishing a current or new medical facility can seem like a daunting process initially. Items like the renovation or build cost, disruption to your business and impact on staff and patients can be primary concerns in the short term. Rest assured you are not alone, with the right tools and guidance, the process can prove to be a smooth and exciting transition.
Follow these top 4 tips before you begin the design and construction process:
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- Establish company goals
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- Location, location, location
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- Planning, budget and size
- Feasibility
#1 Your Goals
Where do you want your business to be one year from now? What do you want to achieve?
Develop a clear company brief outlining your short and long term goals. The brief should include corporate values, vision, business plan, number of health professionals, project requirements and many others.
You may consider gathering feedback from your customers about the existing premise and services you provide. Involve your employees in establishing your company goals; they will appreciate the open communication, which may assist the staff transition.
Make sure that you dedicate enough time to the planning process as it will drive the success of your project.
For more information, read Forbes’6 Steps To Successful Business Goals.
#2 Location, Location, Location
Whether you are leasing, buying or refurbishing a premise; a significant factor to consider is the location. The most important areas you need to be mindful of are:
- parking
- disability and mobility access
- demographic location
- premise conditions
- public transport proximity
- expansion opportunities
- budget constraints
- shopfront visibility
- authority approvals
- timeframes and disruptions
Although there are many items to consider, it will assist you in getting the ball rolling and ideas flowing. It will most likely save you problems or further complications in the long run.
Accessibility and Mobility
Accessibility for disability and mobility purposes is a major plus! If one of your premise options have accessible paths and facilities such as lifts and bathrooms, this will benefit you by saving time and money. Ensure your premise complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010.
A design consultant will guide you through the requirements, but it is useful for you to understand before you commit to a premise.
Car Spaces
The number of car spaces required is calculated differently depending on the size of your practice. Every council has varied requirements, but usually, you will need at least 2-3 car spaces per facility.
Once you have a few premises in mind, it is best to involve a design company who has extensive experience in your field. A design professional will be able to provide expert advice based on your requirements to establish if the project is feasible.
In the end, only you can decide if the location is suitable for your business, as long as you have the right approvals in place.
Authority Approvals
The authority approvals process is a case by case basis. Your design and fitout company will be able to guide you through the process.
Every site requires a Zoning Certificate, also known as a Section 149 Certificate. This provides you with the legal requirements for a particular piece of land. You will need to request a copy of the Section 149 from your agent or building owner. Your design and construction company will request the certificate prior to design, as it can affect the design process and project timeline.
#3 Planning, Budget and Size
Planning
The transition from the current practice (if any) to the new premise can be tricky, with the right plans in place you can create a smooth transition.
Do you want to be operational before Christmas or have a specific date in mind? Ensure this is feasible by following these key tips:
- Communicate and educate your staff on the future plan and changes.
- Inform your patients early on.
- Decide if you will require a close-down period or if you can stage the construction process (talk to your design and fitout company).
- Allow enough time to apply for authority approvals such as banks, creditors and council at the initial enquiry stage (talk to your design and fitout company).
- Provide feedback and finish selections promptly.
- Don’t delay, stick with the program.
- Create a positive culture for change.
Involve a design and construction company that provides a turn-key solution; this will assist in providing a smooth process.
Budget and Size
Establishing a budget from the beginning will guide the feasibility of your project and assist in creating a stress-free process. A design and construction company who specialises in medical design and fitout’s, should provide you with a preliminary budget, based on your selected premise options. Your budget and brief may influence the size of your chosen facility and level of finishes.
The budget can be adjusted in accordance with your situation and expectations. This will save you valuable time and will set up your targets for the project from day one.
#4 Feasibility
Is your new project feasible? Consider the above tips before you invest time, money and resources on your new premise.
Get professional advice from the beginning, a design and fitout company will be able to guide you through the process and make recommendations that will reduce the investment risk, add value through design and planning for future growth.
Can Space For Health help you? Make an enquiry below.
