Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Spine Center

A world-renowned spine surgeon requested a remodel and renovation of the ninth floor of the Mark Goodson Building in a neurosurgical program. The project had several unique requirements, one of which was the design of the clinical space, with the exam rooms arranged in a multiple pod configuration. Each pod contains five-to-six exam rooms gravitating around a nurse station and a PACS viewing station. Another design requirement was to allow the doctor to face the patient at all times while in the exam room, regardless of whether he is addressing the patient or using a work station. All physicians’ offices are located along the perimeter of the building to take advantage of natural light from existing windows.

The project includes a waiting area with reception/registration functions, a clinical area consisting of 28 exam rooms, three nurses stations, two radiology rooms with control area, four picture archiving and communications systems (PACS) viewing stations, patient restrooms, clean and soiled utility rooms, and a consult room. The administrative area consists of 20 physician’s assistants shared work areas, 10 physician’s offices, a research suite with high-density shelving storage, conference room, staff lounge, and work area. Due to the high profile of some of the patients, a VIP separate entry was required for privacy.