Enhancing Healthcare Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Approach for Building Performance Evaluation

Abstract

In Brazil, healthcare buildings are acknowledged for their architectural complexity, because they are designed to cater to a heterogeneous and vulnerable public. Building performance assessments (BPEs) offer an alternative means to comprehend the authentic state of these structures and to identify potential enhancements. However, due to the multidisciplinary nature of healthcare buildings, the BPE process can be both extensive and intricate. Consequently, this research developed a systematic approach to BPE in healthcare by delineating and categorizing pertinent themes that are integral to the evaluation process. To achieve this objective, the research encompassed three distinct parts: (1) elaboration of the initial proposal for a BPE approach for healthcare buildings; (2) validation of identified themes and their organizational structure through the application of the Delphi method; and (3) conversion of the generated proposal into a quantitative approach with factors and weights for each dimension of the Healthcare BPE approach developed. The outcome of this rigorous process yielded a conceptual framework for Healthcare BPE comprising 6 dimensions, 25 criteria, and 201 subcriteria. These dimensions range from considerations of location to comfort, encompassing environmental and social issues. Additionally, the criteria were related systematically to distinct phases within the building’s life cycle. This research effort resulted in the proposal of a Healthcare BPE approach that is capable of addressing critical concerns, aligned with either the various phases of the building or specific requirements. This structured and comprehensive approach will enhance the effectiveness of BPE in the context of healthcare buildings, providing a valuable tool for stakeholders involved in their design, construction, and ongoing management.