One way in and out of medical offices

See if patients can easily notice the check out area as staffers escort them back toward the exam rooms. A wide, two-way hall helps patients remember how to exit after the exam. "Circular flow" layouts with a seperate entrance and exit can confuse patients and prompt interruptions as they stop to ask directions. Be sure to allow for queuing space at check-out.

An ideal "goodbye" desk positions a staffer so she or he has easy eye contact with patients approaching the exit. This helps reduce confusion and avoid missing necessary forms when patients miss the check out process.

The main hallways should serve as a "boulevard," with "side streets" leading to ancillary and exam areas. Minimize the number of turns a patient has to make.