Patients and visitors walking into the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute of Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health are greeted with an abundance of natural light, natural wood finishes, and a large, living green wall. Overflowing with a variety of green plants, the green wall, along with other features throughout the Cancer Institute, were built with inspiration from cancer patients, survivors and families.
“Natural lighting, views of nature and incorporation of living plants have a positive impact on mood, which is very important to us in our care of our cancer patients and their families,” said Randall Oyer, MD, program director of Oncology at LG Health.
The wall, which is 33 feet wide and 12 feet high, offers tranquility to patients in one of the Institute’s waiting areas. To help ensure the green wall thrives, growth lights were installed at the top of the wall so the plants receive enough light year-round. As part of the recirculating irrigation system, UV filters keep the water pathogen-free, while maximizing the green wall’s efficiency.
In addition to the wall, a healing garden landscaped with native plants, water, paths and stone benches sits at the center of the Cancer Institute. The garden offers contemplative spaces for patients and families to interact with nature and find comfort by the meditation pavilion.
“A cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience for a patient and their family,” said executive director Nik Buescher. “The green wall and natural gardens are one of the first things that most visitors notice at the Cancer Institute, perhaps helping put them a little more at ease so they can focus on healing.”