German modular design for Australian hospitals

The popularity of sustainable modular construction is transforming healthcare construction throughout the world. Australia is fast adopting this trend and modular operating rooms are installed in a number of facilities nationally, in both public and private sectors.

Wilhelm Integrated Solutions (Wilhelm) has progressed on its mission to improve the standard of health in Australia and New Zealand by becoming the exclusive distributor and installer of MEDIK’s range of modular wall systems.

According to Chad Wilhelm, Managing Director of Wilhelm, “With traditional construction methods for operating rooms (ORs) and intensive care units (ICUs) taking months to complete, it’s little wonder that more and more facilities are looking at modular systems to significantly reduce risks and construction time.” This becomes especially important with refurbishments, as every extra day a room is unavailable for use, it results in longer patient wait times and a compounding loss of revenue.

“The ability to offer a modern total solution to hospitals has been a high priority for us,” Wilhelm said.

“The addition of MEDIK walls to our digital operating rooms, lights, pendants and leading infection prevention and control products now means that facilities have the ability to deal with a trusted single partner from design to construction, training, maintenance and support.”

The MEDIK MEDglas solution combines glass and light, enabling the inclusion of photorealistic 3D prints to be incorporated into the glass panels, enabling the creation of an attractive aesthetic that benefits both hospital staff and patients. The specially tempered security glass is resistant to scratches and cracks. Sustainable, lifelong efficiencies are realised as modular wall solutions require little maintenance and provide a hygienic ideal clinical environment.

Wilhelm intends to promote to hospital owners, governments and architects the benefits of adopting modular wall systems in more hospital builds.

“Whilst initially the costs may be a little higher, the benefits of a more modern design that is sustainable [and] easy to clean, lowered ongoing maintenance and an improved aesthetic for both clinicians and patients makes modular wall systems a compelling proposition. We hope to see more systems being specified as a requirement in the future,” Wilhelm said.

Image credit: Supplied