Gina Weldy, vice president of operations and real estate for Chicago-based Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, told Medical Office News although the health system usually aims to provide fresh, healthy food for patients and staff, unhealthy food choices — like donuts — may sometimes provide patients with more comfort to endure the medical challenges they may face during their time at the facility.
“If a family is going through chemotherapy with their three year old, they don’t really care … about the healthfulness of the food [at that moment] — they’re going to give the child whatever makes them comfortable that day,” Ms. Weldy said.
In addition to providing patients with a respite from the stresses of the hospital, officials also sought to lease the retail space to tenants who would serve as an amenity for hospital employees, who end up spending much of their time at the facility. The tenants that ended up leasing space at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in downtown Chicago — including Dunkin Donuts, Protein Bar and Starbucks — were so well received by employees that officials ended up closing the hospital’s employee cafeteria and replaced it with four healthier restaurant options, according to the report.
More articles on facilities management:
Georgia county seeks approval for new hospital: 5 things to know
Portsmouth Regional Hospital opens $10.5M emergency medical facility: 4 things to know
Real estate company proposes $97M hospital in Elsa, Texas
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.