Integrating Modern Design and Sustainability in Healthcare Architecture: A Comparative Case Study of Sri Lanka's National Nephrology Hospital and the UK's NHS New Hospital Programme

Hospital architecture has evolved significantly, influenced by advancements in medical science, technology, and societal needs. This paper examines the historical progression of hospital architecture, highlighting modern trends such as patient-centred design, modular construction, sustainability, and digital integration. It emphasizes the relevance of these trends to Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), focusing on the China-Sri Lanka Friendship National Nephrology Hospital (NNSH) in Polonnaruwa. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing historical data, literature reviews, and case studies from developed and developing countries, primarily focusing on the NNSH and the UK's NHS New Hospital Programme (NHP).
The NNSH exemplifies innovative hospital design, incorporating energy-saving technologies, climate-responsive features, and disaster resilience. It functions as a community hub, promoting health education and outreach. Insights from the NHP emphasize the integration of digital solutions, standardized designs, and sustainable practices, which are pivotal for enhancing healthcare infrastructure in LMICs.
Strategic recommendations address challenges such as cost constraints, infrastructure gaps, and technical expertise in LMICs, including digital transformation, net-zero carbon strategies, green practices, and adherence to standardized guidelines. This comparative study underscores the importance of adaptable and sustainable hospital architecture in improving healthcare delivery and outcomes in Sri Lanka and other LMICs.