Flexibility Is the Key to Dealing with the Post-Covid Healthcare Backlog

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Covid-19 has led to a huge backlog among routine primary care services. In fact, the term ‘routine’ doesn’t really reflect the importance of some of the services that have been stalled or reduced during the pandemic.

Childhood immunisation, cancer screenings and services to care homes are among the areas in need of an urgent catch-up. Additionally, patients who had severe Covid-19 symptoms often have long-term health issues that need to be monitored and managed.

The need to maintain social distancing makes it harder for primary care services to make up the lost ground. Many practices were already tight for space before the pandemic. With the virus still in circulation, social distancing and heightened infection control measures are still needed.

Modern Methods of Construction

Where additional space is needed quickly, it would be impractical to use traditional building methods to create the capacity required. Traditional construction takes longer and can be more prone to delays and disruption while in progress.

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including panelised building systems, are fast and reliable. They also create much less noise, dust and disruption during the build. This is important where existing healthcare facilities are being expanded.

Speed, Without Looking Temporary

Buildings created using panelised construction don’t have the ‘temporary’ appearance most people associate with modular or prefabricated building methods. Design options are virtually unlimited. They look similar to traditional builds and can blend easily with existing design styles. They are also exceptionally well insulated, both thermally and acoustically to create a welcoming and comfortable environment.

MMC approaches can be used by NHS trusts to expand surgical facilities as shown in this animation. Adopting a similar approach for primary and elderly care would help services clear the backlog and be better prepared for future demand and emergencies.