When you think of Disney, you likely imagine magical moments filled with characters, vivid storytelling, and unparalleled attention to detail. Now, imagine that same level of care and creativity embedded in healthcare.
AdventHealth, in collaboration with Disney Institute, has brought this idea to life with its AdventHealth Emergency Room at Flamingo Crossings Town Center near Walt Disney World Resort.
This groundbreaking partnership is revolutionizing the patient experience by combining Disney storytelling with AdventHealth’s clinical expertise, setting a new benchmark in patient care.
The New Era of Patient-Centric Medical Facilities
This is no ordinary emergency room. Every aspect of the 19,000-square-foot facility has been designed to create a calming, immersive patient environment. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the influence of Disney’s storytelling craft. Familiar characters from The Little Mermaid, Moana, and Finding Nemo greet visitors, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance during stressful times.
The space incorporates intentional design elements like soothing colors, adjustable lighting, and curated sounds designed to reduce anxiety. Patients can personalize their room settings to feel more in control, a crucial feature in what is often an overwhelming environment.
The Power of Collaboration for Patient Experience
The collaboration is the result of over 15 years of partnership between Disney Institute and AdventHealth. What started with the Walt Disney Pavilion at AdventHealth for Children has evolved into a relationship aimed at reimagining healthcare environments.
Through Disney Institute’s professional development programs, AdventHealth staff have been trained to prioritize intentional communication, offer personalized care, and create a service culture that mirrors Disney’s exceptional guest experiences. These efforts have paid off, with patient satisfaction scores reaching the top 10% nationwide.
Storytelling Meets Healthcare Design
Drawing upon the expertise of AOA, a design firm renowned for themed entertainment, Disney and AdventHealth crafted a space that merges storytelling with functional healthcare design. The partnership demonstrates how even high-stress environments like emergency rooms can prioritize whole-person care.
Disney’s Ongoing Legacy in Healthcare
This project goes beyond just one facility. It’s part of Disney’s broader $100 million commitment to enhancing the patient experience in children’s hospitals worldwide. Leveraging their storytelling expertise and beloved characters, Disney aims to make healthcare settings less intimidating, especially for families facing serious illnesses.
At its core, this initiative reflects Disney’s longstanding ethos. Dating back to Walt himself, Disney has always sought to bring comfort and joy to people in challenging circumstances.
The success of AdventHealth and Disney’s collaboration proves that healthcare doesn’t have to be impersonal or intimidating. Thoughtful design and intentional service can transform even the most stressful situations into experiences that heal and comfort.
