• Main Website
  • Washroom Services
  • Healthcare Waste
  • Floor Mats
  • Vending Services
  • Initial Shop
Initial Washroom Hygiene and Initial Medical UK – Blog
  • Main Website
  • Washroom Services
  • Healthcare Waste
  • Floor Mats
  • Vending Services
  • Initial Shop
Home  /  Healthcare Waste  /  The physical environment and patient satisfaction
Dental Practice room with blue patient chair
30 September 2023

The physical environment and patient satisfaction

Written by Abbey Mackie
Healthcare Waste dental practices Leave a Comment

There are several reasons why the physical environment is so crucial for a positive patient experience. First impressions can have a significant impact on the perception a patient has of the practice, how they describe it to others and whether they want to return. The facilities and physical surroundings have also been directly linked to how patients perceive the quality of care provided 1.

A US study found that among the most common reasons cited for patient dissatisfaction in any healthcare setting were problems with the environment and amenities 2. Other research3 has also shown that a good ambience, cleanliness and the interior décor in healthcare environments are all associated with higher patient satisfaction and trust. In an emergency healthcare setting, it has been found that patients care most about overcrowding and privacy with regards to the physical environment 4. 

Application in the dental practice

In order to optimise the patient experience in the dental practice, there are several aspects of the physical environment to consider. Think about the patient journey through the premises, from walking in the front door to visiting reception, sitting in the waiting room, entering the surgery and then their journey back out again. 

Is the décor inviting all the way through? Does it promote the right ambience? What do they see first when they open each door? Are the chairs in the waiting area comfortable? Are there steps or tight corners that might make getting around difficult for some people? Are the corridors well-lit? 

Even the smallest details can make a difference to what patients think of the practice. For instance, a very clean, pleasant smelling and well-designed washroom can really elevate a patient’s perception of the entire business. The Signature range from Initial Medical offers various washroom products from soap and hand sanitiser dispensers to air fresheners, toilet seat cleaner, paper towel and toilet paper dispensers. This portfolio is an excellent way of elevating your washroom aesthetic, reflecting your brand and showing patients that you go above and beyond to enhance their experience at every point.

The best environment for quality dental care

As mentioned, there are many ways in which the physical environment of the dental practice contributes to its success. To give your practice the best chance for success now and in the future, everything from the décor to the lighting and the washrooms should be functional and aesthetic. Don’t let your business down by forgetting about the small details!


Sources:

  1. Obadan-Udoh, E, Ramoni, R, Van Der Berg-Cloete, S, White, G, & Kalenderian, E. (2019). Perceptions of quality and safety among dental patients. South African Dental Journal , 74(7), 374-382. https://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2519-0105/2019/v74no7a4
  2.  Weingart SN, Pagovich O, Sands DZ, Li JM, Aronson MD, Davis RB, et al. Patient-reported service quality on a medicine unit. International Journal for Quality in Health Care 2006; 18(2): 95-101. 
  3. Yun A, Khalilur RM, Shah N, Abu Issa G, Atikur R, Al MA, Xia C. Determinants of patients’ satisfaction and trust toward healthcare service environment in general practice clinics. Frontiers in Psychology. 2022; 13. DOI:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.856750 ISSN=1664-1078   
  4. Rowe A, Knox M. The Impact of the Healthcare Environment on Patient Experience in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review to Understand the Implications for Patient-Centered Design. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal. 2023;16(2):310-329. doi:10.1177/19375867221137097

 Previous Article What do you need to do this flu season?
Next Article   Infections you can spread by not washing your hands

Related Posts

  • New Waste Regulations for Dental Practices Medical

    New waste Simpler Recycling regulations now in force

    May 12, 2025
  • rat in drain

    How to stop pests in healthcare practices

    May 1, 2025
  • clinical waste bag

    Initial Medical Myth Busters – Can laboratory waste be sustainable?

    April 4, 2025
Abbey Mackie

Leave a Reply

Cancel reply

  • Washroom Hygiene: Ensure spotless and hygienic washrooms with our tailored solutions, including sanitary disposal, hand hygiene, and air care.
  • Medical Waste Disposal: Our expert medical waste services help healthcare facilities maintain compliance and safety with reliable and responsible disposal solutions.
blue letter
Contact the team at Initial Washroom Hygiene and Initial Medical today to discuss your business requirements.

Search

Contact Us

WASHROOM HYGIENE
0808 302 8299

HEALTHCARE WASTE
0808 301 1658

Categories

  • Air Care
  • Clinical Waste
  • Consumables
  • Cubicle hygiene
  • Floor Mats
  • Hand Hygiene
  • Healthcare Waste
  • Period Dignity
  • Sharps Disposal
  • Uncategorized
  • Vending Services
  • Washroom Services
  • Water Management

© 2025 Rentokil Initial plc and subject to the conditions in the legal statement.

  • Sanitary Waste
  • Floor Mats
  • Hand Dryers
  • Aircare
  • Hand Hygiene & Care
  • Clinical Waste
  • Sharps Disposal
  • Dental Waste
  • Manage cookies
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • RI Supplier Code
  • Gender Pay Report
  • Modern Slavery Statement
myInitial
eBilling
TRUSTPILOT