Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Up on the roof: Two gardens creating ‘healing environment’

Workers have begun installing one of two gardens on the roof at St. Francis Hospital-Mooresville.

The 7,200 square feet of plantings to be grown in the two gardens will be visible from many patient rooms and waiting areas in the newly expanded hospital.

“As far as we know, we are the only hospital in Indiana that has rooftop gardens,” said Anita Trackwell, clinical services director.

She said the gardens fit with the hospital’s efforts to foster a “healing environment” for patients and visitors. The hospital already features two outdoor patio areas accessible to employees and guests. The patios include flowers, bushes, trees and waterfalls.