Exploring Medical Space Design and Commercial Real-Estate with Rachel Koster

Rachel Koster earned her Master's Degree in Interior Architecture from Kansas State University. She is an expert in what's called 3-D visualization technology. She is also an expert in commercial real estate , particularly health care space design and development. We picked her brain and covered everything from how medical space design affects a patient mood to how it affects work flow and staff morale. How can elements such as colors, hallway width and lighting make a huge impact on your practice?We covered leasing, negotiations and location selection. Have you considered getting into the commercial real estate arena? It's a tricky business and you're going to want to hear what Rachel has to say. We really covered a lot of ground and this is definitely an episode you don't want to miss. So let's get started...Show Notes:-What is Internal Architecture? How does space affect your mood?-3D Visualization Software. Sketchup.com.-2nd Generation Spaces vs. New construction.-Knowing what your goals are. How many exam rooms will you need? How much administration space do you need? Meeting room?-Opening a new office? Who do you need to speak with first? What are the steps to making a successful transition.-The elements of Internal Architecture. The reception desk. Open spaces. Hallway widths. Work flow. Colors-How do you use the medical office to reflect the personality of the medical provider?-The importance of collaboration between the design team, the provider and the medical team.-Where to go to get ideas and stratifies for your office design.-Existing Office: What can you do in a day or weekend to transform your medical practice space? What are some quick fixes?-Traffic choke points. Focusing on patient flow and efficiency. Making sure your patients don't get "lost in a maze" on the way out!-Measuring your patients' experience. The importance of first impressions.-Each area can be a different experience. The waiting area is a different experience than the exam room.-Location, Location, Location! Retail vs. Medical office park. Parking, highway proximity and ease of access.-Commercial real estate.-You need help. How to qualify and assess a real estate professional.-Negotiating a lease. Remember, all leases are written for the landlord, not you.-What to look for and what to avoid in a lease agreement. Exclusivity clauses.-Thinking about getting into the commercial real estate business? Should you lease or purchase office space? Assessment fees. Your legal rights. Flood plains.-Dealing with practice partners as it relates to real estate. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit peerspectrum.substack.com