Bright rooms and security: The palliative care ward in Deutschlandsberg

Bright rooms and security: The palliative care ward in Deutschlandsberg

The start of the new year brought with it an exciting expansion of the healthcare offering in Deutschlandsberg. The palliative care ward at the LKH Weststeiermark opened at the turn of the year and is already very popular. So large that sometimes there is even a waiting list for occupancy. This palliative offer from the Steiermärkische Krankenanstaltengesellschaft m.b.H. (KAGes) is characterized by well-thought-out architecture that is intended to help patients feel safe in their difficult life situations.

The layout of the palliative care unit has been designed to create a friendly and supportive environment. “The goal was not only to guarantee efficient processes, but also to create a space that gives those affected a feeling of security,” says Ulf Drabek, board member of KAGes. The station serves people suffering from terminal illnesses who require more intensive care than can be provided by mobile teams.

An inviting atmosphere for difficult conversations

Patients usually stay in the palliative care unit for one to two weeks. During this time they rely on more comprehensive medical and psychosocial support. The ward employees often have the challenging task of having difficult conversations with those affected and their relatives, which is why the environment here is of great importance.

The design of the ward is intended to help patients cope with the difficult time. The walls are decorated with calming, nature-inspired patterns that have been scientifically proven to have positive effects on well-being. Light that shines filtered through treetops creates a pleasant atmosphere. “The light falls into the rooms in a similar way to leaves in a forest,” explains project manager Uwe Hofmeister. This pleasant atmosphere is an essential part of the concept.

Although the palliative care ward in Deutschlandsberg is the KAGes' newest facility, there is a comprehensive range of palliative care throughout Styria. This includes several other stations in various hospitals, including the University Hospital of Graz and at the LKH Hochsteiermark in Leoben. “We strive to offer palliative care close to where our patients live,” emphasizes Drabek.

The palliative care ward in Deutschlandsberg is not only beautifully designed, but also offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills. "We placed the lightweight ward directly on the C wing above the maternity clinic, which creates a special spatial effect. It is brighter and more spacious, which gives the patients a feeling of freedom," says Jöbstl, an employee of the hospital.

This thoughtfully designed environment not only represents improved medical care, but also the importance of architecture in healthcare. On the occasion of the upcoming World Palliative Care and Hospice Day on October 12, 2024, the dedicated palliative care team will provide further insights into their work and the importance of room design for patients. The philosophy behind the facility illustrates how important it is to create a place that offers security and support, even in challenging life situations.

For more information on this topic you can view the detailed report www.leibnitzaktuell.at read up.