Over expert 40 speakers will offer information on topics including design, sustainability, energy, infection control, and engineering at Healthcare Estates 2008, which takes place at Harrogate International Centre from 14-15 October.
This year will see the topical themes of “sustainability” and “carbon-related issues” form the conference programme’s backbone, with an information centre offering guidance and solutions on how healthcare bodies can tackle these initiatives.
A special feature – the Sustainability Centre – will be manned by six leading organisations offering invaluable advice on how to meet the “green” demands set by governing bodies. Already confirmed are RIBA, the Carbon Trust, the Department of Health’s Estates & Facilities Division, and BRE.
Meanwhile, with ongoing discussion in PFI and LIFT design and construction projects over the relative merits of one versus four bedroom ward environments, a series of simulation rooms will offer visitors and delegates the opportunity to see the latest design ideas and products available for patient wards, and highlight the key “selling points” from each perspective. This ambitious feature, designed by Richard Mazuch, senior director at Nightingale Associates and one of the world’s leading healthcare architects, will highlight three single patient room layouts and a four bed ward layout. Populated by exhibitors’ products, the rooms will also showcase some of the most exciting new features that look set to be available in the near future.
Visitors can experience these rooms first hand, form their own view, and subsequently participate in the conference’s “Late Debate” on the show’s first day. The debate will be hosted by IHEEM president Phil Nedin, examining the benefits of one bed wards, and Richard Mazuch, highlighting the contrasting advantages of four-bed ward design and construction. To take part register your interest at www.healthcare-estates.com, where you will also find general event information, or visit www.iheem.org.uk
