RMJM unveils health studio

Dubai-based international architecture firm RMJM has launched its Global Health and Science Studio to cater to the growing demand for healthcare infrastructure in the GCC.

The new facility will promote the findings of RMJM's extensive research into how structural design can be applied to better prevent the spread of dangerous infections in GCC hospitals. These include new design models for isolation zones and directing airflow to keep staff and patients safe from threatening gasses or infections.

Amid the outbreak of swine flu, RMJM said the new approach to hospital design will strengthen the GCC's capacity to manage infectious diseases.

According to estimates, the GCC will face an unparalleled and unprecedented rise in demand for healthcare over the course of the next two decades.

Total healthcare spending in the region is forecast to reach Dh220 billion by 2025, up from Dh44bn today.

Benny Chow, RMJM Senior Associate and building aerodynamics expert on infectious disease, who led the research said: "Through a process that we call 'forensic architecture', which constantly analyses data during a building's design and construction, we are exploring ways of minimising the risk of the spread of infections such as Sars or H1N1."

Noah Burwell, RMJM's Regional Health and Science Leader, who will lead the new studio, said: "The Global Health and Science Studio will allow us to bring together our expertise in cutting-edge technologies to provide the best possible services."

 

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