Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Space Planning Criteria (Chapter 269)
Washington, DC 20420
February 2007
E. Departmental Net to Gross (DNTG) Conversion Factor: A parameter, determined by
the VA for each space planning criteria chapter, used to convert the programmed Net
Square Foot (NSF) area to the Department Gross Square Foot (DGSF) area. The
DNTG Departmental Conversion Factor for Recreation Service is 1.30.
F. Drama Therapy: Drama therapy is defined by the National Association for Drama
Therapy as "the systematic and intentional use of drama / theater processes,
products, and associations to achieve the therapeutic goals of symptom relief,
emotional and physical integration and personal growth." Drama therapy is an active
approach that helps the client tell his or her story to solve a problem, achieve a
catharsis, extend the depth and breadth of inner experience, understand the meaning
of images, and strengthen the ability to observe personal roles while increasing
flexibility between roles.
G. Full-Time Equivalent (FTE): A staffing parameter equal to the amount of time
assigned to one full time employee. It may be composed of several part-time
employees whose total time commitment equals that of a full-time employee. One
FTE equals a 40 hours per week.
H. Functional Area: The grouping of rooms and spaces based on their function within a
clinical service. Typical Functional Areas are Reception Areas, Patient Areas, Support
Areas, Staff and Administrative Areas, and Residency Program.
I.
Input Data Statements: A set of questions designed to elicit information about the
healthcare project in order to create a Program for Design (PFD) based on the criteria
parameters set forth in this document. Input Data Statements could be Mission
related, based in the project's Concept of Operations; and Workload or Staffing
related, based on projections and data provided by the VHA or the VISN about the
estimated model of operation for the facility. This information is processed through
mathematical and logical operations in VA-SEPS.
J. Music Therapy: Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music
interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a
credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.
Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a
therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of
individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified
music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving
to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context,
clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music
therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who
find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports
its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating
movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment,
providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for
expression of feelings.
K. Program for Design (PFD): A space program based on criteria set forth in this
document and specific information about Concept of Operations, workload projections
and staffing levels authorized.
Recreation Service (269): Page 3 of 13
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