Our Conversations
Working with SaluteIndia gave all of our members the opportunity to speak with patients at the hospitals that we redesigned. Our conversations revealed the importance of thoughtful hospital design. It can serve as a silent signal of respect, and for communities that already carry deep mistrust toward the healthcare system, that matters enormously.
Conversation No. 1
(Transcribed from Telugu)
I didn’t grow up going to doctors. We couldn’t afford it...mostly my mother did not believe in it. So when I came here, everything was new...the machines, their language,...the noises. I had so many questions but didn’t know how to ask. I was scared they would laugh, or get annoyed, or dismiss me. So I stayed quiet. I said yes when they asked if I understood, even when I didn’t. But when I came in again for my son's illness, the hospital had changed. It was more colorful. There was a chair for me to sit beside his bed and a curtain around us for privacy. The doctor...she said the hospital had been redesigned to feel more welcoming, especially for people like me... I did not feel as ashamed for not knowing everything.
Conversation No. 2
(Transcribed from Telugu)
I never liked coming to this clinic. I only came when I had no other choice. It always felt... rushed like no one wanted to be here for long. I am happy they wanted to change...they understood they needed to change the design. I think when a hospital looks like it cares, people start to believe the care is real. It is strange how small things can make you feel...different about your care. But it is true.
Conversation No. 3
(Transcribed from Hindi)
My father...he tries to act strong. He does not like when we see him weak...or when other people see him weak. He hated coming here, but seeing the changes he was more willing...he saw that he had more space and privacy. There was also some space for us to stay with him overnight. There was nowhere to sleep... so we took turns in that wooden chair. Still, it was something. It felt like someone thought of us.