Economic argument for innovative design from valuing patient-centered stroke rehabilitation

Purpose: This study examines the economic benefits of innovative design in a hospital ward with the capital and operational costs and societal and government benefits. Background: An economic view of health care delivery options considers both the costs and benefits of an intervention for the economy, funders, and patients. Previous studies have focused on the financial costs of capital as an asset class for hospital development. Methods: Four hypothetical stroke rehabilitation units were designed within a larger Living Labs program (the NOVELL project). A standard stroke rehabilitation hospital ward design was compared to three alternative designs. The alternative designs expanded areas for therapy, social engagement, communal activities, and staff wellbeing, included activated corridors and enabled access to outdoor and recreational areas based on clinical evidence and expert advice. Results: The alternative designs are predicted to achieve A$3.3 million in savings annually for rehabilitation ward operational costs (a saving of 26%). Economy-wide benefits from the alternative designs are estimated to be A$12 million plus savings to government of between A$3.93 million and A$5.4 million per ward per annum. Conclusions: Adoption of innovation in design, clinical practice and evidence identification has the capacity to improve clinical effectiveness and patient outcomes. Economy wide benefits and cost improvements for health funders from the adoption of innovative design have been identified through micro- and macro-economic evaluation.