The Kensington Cancer Centre at BMI Princess Margaret Hospital in Windsor has been awarded a Macmillan Quality Environment Mark, recognising the centre as a healthcare environment that prioritises a positive patient experience.
The Macmillan Quality Environment Mark (MQEM) is a quality standard developed by Macmillan Cancer Support, the largest cancer care charity in the UK. Developed in collaboration with hundreds of service users, it was launched in 2010 and was the first programme of its kind for cancer care facilities in the UK.
An MQEM assessment provides a thorough review and insight into the way the environment and physical space of cancer care facilities support patient choice and dignity.
LSI’s work at the centre incorporated internal remodelling to create new Urgent Care Centre and Oncology areas.
The design pays equal attention to patient and staff accommodation, providing high quality treatment spaces as well as comfortable working environment for clinical staff. The bright and welcoming dedicated reception and waiting area is well liked by patients.
Individual Treatment Pod’s are equipped with a dedicated Air Conditioning Unit, TV, feature wall mounted medical services panel, as well as full height glazed screen with integral blinds for controlling privacy and an external window providing natural daylight and views out. The layout of the pods follow organically shaped walls, positioned to screen treatment chairs from views-in from the circulation space. A beverage and snack counter with large-scale wall graphics adds interest and makes the space feel less clinical.
The project also included the development of a typical schedule of accommodation and patient flows for different patient pathways within the unit.
The revamped unit for people receiving chemotherapy palliative care and personal support for a range of cancers – breast, cervical, kidney, oesophageal, ovarian, prostate, skin, testicular and womb. It delivers more than 3200 treatments each year and was opened by the Countess of Wessex in 2018.
