Healthcare Design - August 2016 - 160

F FIRST LOOK | 08.16
Relocation package

The need to find a new site for the Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative in Hackensack, N.J.,
allowed the nonprofit to address operational issues of old in a new, larger space

over 200 specialists. Although unplanned,
the relocation allowed BVMI to address key
issues, including the need for more space to
accommodate its clinical and administrative
functions, sufficient parking for patients
and volunteers, and accessibility to public
transportation.
Poskanzer Skott Architects (Ridgewood, N.J.)
worked closely with BVMI on site selection as well
as project design. The new location is 50 percent
larger than the current facility and is composed
of three spaces previously occupied by separate
tenants. Although the configuration presented
Poskanzer Skott with the challenge of creating a
cohesive, functional space, it offered a workable
solution to BVMI's mandate to separate its clinical
and administrative offices.
For example, two adjoining spaces were
combined to create a spacious outpatient clinic
with additional exam rooms that comfortably
accommodate patients and medical equipment.
An upgraded reception area features counters
at heights for standing or sitting, providing
accessibility to patients in wheelchairs. Glass
partitions at the reception and discharge desks
offer privacy while doubling as a design feature. A
centrally located, island-style nurses' station also
offers accessibility and ample storage, something
sorely lacking in BVMI's current facility. Here, too,
counter heights are intentionally designed for
comfort while sitting or standing. A small private
office for the nurse manager includes a window
overlooking the nurses' station and clinic areas.
For administrative and support operations,
Poskanzer Skott carved out space for six new

workstations for employees and volunteers
as well as a conference room for staff,
board members, donors, and community
members.
Bright, contemporary finishes were
selected with affordability and durability
in mind. Neutral tones have been used
for counters and cabinets, while color-
including BVMI's signature teal shade-was
introduced in places that can be easily
updated or refreshed. Vinyl floors with a
wood look are used throughout the clinic to
create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
BVMI's new center is projected to be
completed by fall 2016. HCD

Do you have a new project to share? Email Jennifer Kovacs Silvis at jennifer.silvis@emeraldexpo.com for
details on how to contribute a First Look.
160 HCDmagazine.com 08.16

Top: The healthcare center's previous L-shaped nurses' station lacked
accessibility and suitable space for
confidential conversations. For the new
location, an island-style station was
designed that addresses both of these
issues. Removable teal accent panels
can be updated to refresh the decor over
time. Above: The reception area at BVMI
includes finishes that are utilitarian and
budget-friendly, with laminates for countertops, wood-patterned vinyl for floors,
and a textured wall covering to create
a highlight wall in the seating area.
Teal-colored tackboard on the walls near
the reception desk provides acoustical
absorption for greater privacy as well as
space for posting notices to patients.

POSKANZER SKOTT ARCHITECTS

When the city of Hackensack, N.J., designated the
current site of Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative
(BVMI) for redevelopment, the organization-the
only of its kind in Bergen County to provide free
primary healthcare to uninsured, low-income
working adults-had to find a new home.
The nonprofit serves approximately 1,000
patients a year and is led by a small clinical staff
that supports an all-volunteer team of doctors,
nurses, and health and wellness practitioners,
partnering with the county's five hospitals and

http://www.HCDmagazine.com

Healthcare Design - August 2016

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Healthcare Design - August 2016