When selecting a medical office building in Tulsa, Oklahoma, whether you’re a private practitioner, medical group, ambulatory surgery center, or outpatient care provider, certain amenities aren’t just ‘nice to have’, they’re essential. These features support operational efficiency, patient satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and long-term investment value.
At Daniels Greer, we’ve worked extensively with healthcare tenants and developers in Tulsa and the broader Oklahoma City metro, and through that experience, we’ve distilled the must-have amenities that transform a medical office building into a competitive, high-performing asset.
1. Prime Location & Accessibility
Proximity to Major Medical Hubs
Being close to leading Tulsa hospitals like Saint Francis, Ascension St. John, or Hillcrest can drive referrals and simplify collaboration. A location within 1–5 miles of a major health center boosts convenience for both patients and providers.
Parking & Public Transit Access
- Abundant, convenient parking is critical, especially for patients with limited mobility.
- Nearby Tulsa Transit routes enhance accessibility for staff and patients relying on public transportation.
Visibility & Branding
Highly visible locations with monument signage, digital wayfinding, and space for branding increase walk-in traffic and build trust with patients.
2. Patient-Focused Features
Comfortable Waiting Areas
Natural light, calming décor, and accessible restrooms contribute to a more pleasant patient experience. Amenities like charging stations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and water stations add value.
Efficient Check-In and Wayfinding
Digital kiosks, clear directional signage, and intuitive circulation help streamline patient flow and reduce anxiety.
Covered Drop-Off Zones
Covered entryways protect patients from Tulsa’s unpredictable weather, improving access and safety.
3. Interior Layout & Clinical Efficiency
Smart Floor Plans
Exam rooms, procedure areas, labs, and consultation rooms should be laid out to minimize provider movement and maximize patient privacy.
Staff-Only Zones
Dedicated spaces for administrative work, staff breaks, and private meetings help reduce crowding and support workflow.
Flexibility for Specialty Use
Buildings should be easily adapted for use by a range of specialties, from orthopedics to dermatology to behavioral health, offering scalable square footage and utility hookups.
4. Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Infrastructure
Power & Backup Generators
High-demand medical equipment needs 3-phase power and voltage stability. Backup systems are essential for continuity during outages.
HVAC & Air Quality
Separate air zones, HEPA filtration, and humidity control (ideal range: 40–60%) are vital for infection control and patient comfort.
Medical Gas Lines
For surgery or outpatient treatment centers, gas lines (oxygen, nitrous oxide, etc.) are essential. Retrofitting for these can be extremely costly.
5. Technology, Connectivity & Security
Broadband Redundancy
Fast, reliable internet is crucial for EHR systems, telehealth, imaging, and internal communications. Redundant service lines are a best practice.
Telehealth-Ready Spaces
Sound-dampened rooms with video capabilities enable high-quality virtual consultations.
HIPAA-Compliant Security
Buildings should include physical and digital safeguards like secure file storage, access-controlled rooms, surveillance cameras, and encrypted Wi-Fi.
6. Regulatory Compliance & Safety Standards
ADA Compliance
Buildings must meet federal and Oklahoma accessibility standards, including ramps, door widths, grab bars, tactile signage, and van-accessible parking.
Life Safety & Emergency Systems
Fire-rated corridors, smoke alarms, emergency lighting, and secure egress routes are non-negotiable.
Radiation Shielding & Infection Control
X-ray and imaging suites must be built with proper shielding. Waste disposal areas and hand-washing stations must meet CDC and OSHA standards.
7. Parking, Transportation & Eco-Conscious Amenities
ADA & Staff Parking
At least 2–4% of spaces should be ADA-compliant, with additional parking reserved for staff.
EV Charging Stations
These attract environmentally conscious tenants and signal a commitment to sustainability.
Bike Storage & Showers
Supporting alternative transportation options appeals to staff and progressive practices.
8. Exterior Features & Site Infrastructure
Drainage & Stormwater Management
Given Tulsa’s average annual rainfall, properties should have well-designed drainage systems, rain gardens, and stormwater retention infrastructure.
Lighting & Safety
Well-lit pathways, camera-monitored entries, and outdoor seating enhance the property’s usability and safety after hours.
Landscaping & Curb Appeal
Green space and well-maintained landscaping aren’t just aesthetic, they convey professionalism and care, helping build patient trust.
9. Tenant Services & Building Management
On-Site Maintenance & Janitorial
Tenants expect timely repairs, clean common areas, and responsive building staff, especially for regulated spaces.
Shared Conference & Wellness Rooms
Spaces for patient education, staff meetings, or wellness programs can create operational flexibility and improve patient outcomes.
Concierge & Digital Check-In Services
Added features like appointment reminders, digital signage, and visitor assistance help differentiate your space in a competitive market.
10. Sustainability, Resilience & Certifications
Energy-Efficient Design
Buildings with Energy Star, LEED, or WELL certifications often offer lower operating costs and attract forward-thinking tenants.
Disaster Preparedness
Safe rooms and tornado-ready construction are especially relevant in Tulsa, located in Tornado Alley.
Smart Technology Integration
Programmable thermostats, motion-sensor lighting, and building automation reduce costs and improve user comfort.
11. Adaptability & Long-Term Value
Demisable Suites & Expansion Options
The ability to reconfigure or expand space without major renovations ensures long-term usability.
Build-to-Suit Opportunities
While more expensive, build-to-suit buildings give providers complete control over clinical design and workflow optimization.
Tenant Improvement (TI) Allowances
TI packages of $30–$60 per square foot are common and critical for customizing space to medical needs, particularly for startups or specialists.
12. Neighborhood Demographics & Demand
Understanding the population dynamics of Tulsa’s neighborhoods helps ensure that medical tenants are positioned to thrive:
- Downtown Tulsa: Ideal for urgent care, mental health, and employer health services.
- South Tulsa: Affluent population, good fit for aesthetic medicine, OBGYN, and orthopedic clinics.
- East Tulsa: Diverse, family-oriented, strong need for pediatrics, dental, and family practice.
- Broken Arrow: Rapidly growing; great for primary care, surgery centers, and specialty expansion.
13. Why Daniels Greer Prioritizes These Amenities
At Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate, our approach to medical office space goes far beyond square footage and price per foot. We look at:
- Infrastructure that reduces total cost of ownership
- Layouts that enhance patient outcomes
- Amenities that support tenant retention and recruitment
- Compliance features that reduce legal risk
- Community factors that impact long-term ROI
With deep experience in the Tulsa market, we guide clients to spaces that support not just today’s needs, but tomorrow’s growth.
Conclusion
Medical office buildings are the foundation of any successful healthcare practice. The amenities listed above, from ADA access and HVAC zoning to modern telehealth suites and EV charging stations, are more than conveniences. They’re the building blocks of efficient, compliant, and patient-friendly healthcare delivery.
If you’re ready to explore your options in the Tulsa area, Daniels Greer Commercial Real Estate can help you find or develop the ideal MOB for your vision. We don’t just lease space, we create opportunity.