DESIGNING A PUBLIC HOSPITAL IN MALAYSIA: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH IN ENHANCING HEALTHCARE FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL PERSPECTIVE

• Published in: Planning Malaysia
• Main Author: Muhamad J.; Ismail A.A.; Shahbudin M.S.A.; Arman M.F.; Sulong Z.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Malaysian Institute Of Planners 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85196078978&doi=10.21837%2fpm.v22i31.1482&partnerID=40&md5=16448d7a7344732d3a8831df6dc0225c

The public healthcare system in Malaysia was established in the 1850s, prior to the country's independence. Today, it encompasses 146 public hospitals to provide affordable and accessible healthcare services to all Malaysian citizens. However, the public healthcare sector faced various challenges, including ageing facilities and infrastructures, deferred maintenance, limited accessibility, and inefficient layouts. This paper presents a comprehensive approach in designing public hospitals in Malaysia, with a focus on addressing the healthcare needs of the population and improving healthcare infrastructures through architectural optics. This article explores key aspects of hospital designs, including architectural considerations, functional requirements, technological integration, and compliance with regulations and relevant acts. Eight expert samples were employed through semi-structured interviews to ensure credibility and validity. This methodology allowed flexibility in questioning and yet tailored exploration of relevant issues and expertise. Clear data sources and research objectives were established to minimize potential bias and limitations. By incorporating patient-centric design principles, enhancing accessibility, promoting sustainability, and considering future scalability, the proposed design aims to improve public hospitals that can effectively meet the healthcare demands of Malaysia. The recommendations outlined in this study can serve as a guideline for policymakers, healthcare authorities, and designers involved in the creation of efficient and effective healthcare facilities. © 2024 by MIP.