Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Handbook 7610 (276)
Washington, DC 20420
June 2006
Affairs to generate a Program for Design (PFD) and an Equipment List for a VA
healthcare project based on specific information entered in response to Input Data
Statements. VA-SEPS incorporates the propositions set forth in this chapter as well
as all chapters in VA's Handbook 7610. VA-SEPS has been designed to aid
healthcare planners in creating a space plan based on a standardized set of criteria
parameters.
AA. Tomography Room: Used for body section imaging (laminography) and is applicable
to the skull, inner ear, chest, a variety of orthopedic applications. (This room is not
anticipated in the future. It is included here to identify a room size if an existing piece
of equipment is relocated.)
BB. Tomography System: The technique used to provide a still or static patient image
record employing mechanical motion and ionizing radiation to enhance the visual
clarity of a particular anatomic part by controlled blurring of superimposed structures.
(This modality is experiencing reduced use within the VA; however some services still
use it at this time.)
CC. Ultrasound: High frequency sound waves are utilized to determine the size and shape
of internal organs based on the differential rates of reflection. In addition, images can
be observed in real time to reveal motion, and can include coloration of arterial and
venous blood flow. Cyst aspiration and fluid removal are also procedures done with
the ultrasound modality.
DD. Vascular / Neuro-radiology Room: A diographic / fluoroscopic system with a rapid film
changer and with capabilities for performing a range of neuro, visceral, and peripheral
procedures. The system may be single-plane or bi-plane.
EE. Workload: Workload is the anticipated number of procedures or suite stops that are
processed through a department/service area. The total workload applied to
departmental operational assumptions will determine overall room requirements by
modality.
3
OPERATING RATIONALE AND BASIS OF CRITERIA
A.
Workload Projections or planned services / modalities for a specific VA medical center,
hospital or satellite outpatient clinic project are provided by the VA Central Office
(VACO) / VISN CARES Capacity Projection Model. The workload projections are
generated by methodology based upon the expected veteran population in the
respective market/service area. Healthcare planners working on VA medical center,
hospital or satellite outpatient clinic projects will utilize and apply the workload criteria
set forth herein for identified services and modalities to determine room requirements
for each facility.
B.
Space planning criteria have been developed on the basis of an understanding of the
activities involved in the functional areas of the Radiology Service and their
relationship with other services of a medical facility. These criteria are predicated on
established and/or anticipated best practice standards, as adapted to provide
environments supporting the highest quality heath care for Veterans
Radiology Service (Chapter 276): Page 5 of 28
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