Growing separate Obstetrics (OB/GYN) and Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) practices in outdated facilities highlighted a need to improve the experience and increase efficiencies and continuity of care. To do this, they needed a new consolidated clinic space on the Northwestern Lake Forest Campus. Project goals included improved patient flow, increased efficiency for staff, and private and separate arrival experiences for the OB/GYN and MFM patients. Often, MFM patients require additional monitoring during their pregnancy or are going through an emotional period in their life as they try to conceive. Important drivers for a better provider and staff experience included providing daylit work areas and creating a way for providers and staff to collaborate near exam rooms.

Working collaboratively with NM leadership and clinical leaders from both practices, Kahler Slater developed multiple plan scenarios using our Puzzle Play tool, while keeping project goals front of mind. This process helped to build alignment around the new joint practice model and the environment that would support it.

To preserve privacy, separate entry and waiting areas are provided for OB Gyn and MFM patients. Exam rooms are arranged in a pod concept, allowing patients to easily find their exam room, minimizing travel distance from waiting rooms, and allowing physicians to work within one pod on a given day. Exam pods are connected by a large daylight filled team workspace which easily allows physicians to travel between exam rooms, collaborating with other providers and staff. To reduce duplication of services between the practices, lab, ultrasound and consult rooms were centrally located so that both practices could share these resources. Finishes were chosen to convey a sophisticated brand and support a calming experience.