A doctor's coat repels bacteria and gives energy

Pihlajalinna designed new clothing for its staff and patients in collaboration with Medanta. “Workwear also affects how the staff enjoys their work. This in turn is reflected in the environment,” says Pauli Waroma, Marketing Director at Pihlajalinna.

When Pihlajalinna unified its brand, logo and image a year ago, it also wanted to renew its work and patient clothing. The goals were clear: the staff must have good work clothes that allow them to work comfortably and safely. Hygiene must be in order and the clothes must be easy to wash. The appearance of the clothes also matters. In addition to building the atmosphere, they also build a professional identity.

When the design of the new workwear was about to begin, Marketing Director Waroma had already considered replacing Medanta. He felt that the company's selection no longer suited Pihlajalinna's new brand.

"But the mistake was ours. When we met the people of Medanta, we realized that we ourselves had not been able to take advantage of the opportunities that were available," Waroma smiles.

“The Medanta people convinced us. The way they thought about the functionality of the outfits and the development ideas for smart clothing impressed us. This domestic player really knows the industry. Plus, they are good guys.”

The biggest debate about medical gowns

The collaboration started with a clean slate. Employee and patient safety was of course the number one priority, but Pihlajalinna had no other strict wishes or “obligations”.

“We wanted something different from what is already available in the healthcare industry. We chose sporty collections for nurses instead of smart casual. They are comfortable to work in. You will feel energetic, and being energetic is one of our company's values,” says Waroma.

The biggest discussion in advance inside the house was about the doctor's coat, which had been considered for omission.

“The doctor's coat is what it all boils down to in the end. Some people think a doctor isn't a doctor if they don't have a coat.”

A compromise was reached: a more casual version of the doctor's coat was ordered from Medanta.

Medanta listened to Pihlajalinna's wishes and presented its views on suitable materials, designs and colors, as well as their wash resistance. They also ended up designing a bedding collection and towels. Medanta's antibacterial materials inspired Pihlajalinna.

“They are flexible, practical, wrinkle-resistant, colorfast – and above all, safe,” says Waroma.

“Medanta’s antibacterial fabric surface protects the client and caregiver and prevents infections. This kind of protection is very important in our industry,” Waroma says.

Plenty of choice in today's work attire

Pihlajalinna employees can choose from a few options for their work attire. Some of the clothes are suitable for both men and women, but the collection includes, for example, a dress jacket and leggings. The colors are in keeping with Pihlajalinna's brand: lavender, beige and gray. Patients, on the other hand, can slip into dark blue.

“We didn't want to dress patients in different colors based on their clothing size, as is customary in hospitals,” Waroma compares.

There are more models available: there is a nightgown, pants and a long shirt, shorts and a t-shirt. The clothes are antibacterial and, for example, the pajamas can be conveniently opened from the side and back.

“This fabric feels so comfortable that I bought those shorts and a T-shirt for myself,” says Waroma.