User-Centered Innovation: What Is It?
User-centered innovation refers to the approach where the user’s experience and needs are placed at the core of technology development. For example, telehealth services that allow patients to have virtual doctor appointments from the comfort of their homes, or AI-powered chatbots that provide instant medical advice, are geared toward making healthcare more accessible and patient-friendly.
The adoption of patient portals is high, but the use of online scheduling is still low.
– American Medical Informatics Association
Access: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
In an era where technology rules, it’s alarming to note that while 80% of patients at technologically advanced institutions use patient portals, only 10% engage in online scheduling. This figure is in stark contrast to an industry benchmark of 34%. As Mark Zuckerberg once said, “The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that’s changing quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.” To improve these figures, healthcare providers must take calculated risks and innovate to improve access points for patients.
The Build vs. Buy Conundrum
When it comes to initiating digital strategies for healthtech innovations, the ‘build vs. buy’ question often arises. Organizations must consider whether they already have a system that solves the business problem at hand or look to market solutions. Additionally, the return on investment (ROI) is a crucial factor. Building or buying software is not just about immediate needs but should align with long-term digital strategies. This is where the right strategy frameworks come into play, which both the internal team can handle and external partners like Sphere can help with.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the vision for the next decade in healthcare is one where the system tells you what you need to do, instead of you having to figure it out. Imagine a world where healthcare is as intuitive as our smartphones, where AI algorithms analyze our medical data to predict potential health issues and recommend preventative measures proactively.
As we peer into the future, the themes of user-centered healthtech innovation, access, and strategic development stand out. Patient engagement strategies will have to go beyond portals and apps to a more integrated and proactive healthcare system.
If you’re looking to innovate and build the future of healthcare, partnering with us at Sphere Partners could be your first step towards that future. We specialize in healthcare technology solutions and bring years of experience and expertise to the table. Let’s create a healthcare system where technology empowers both providers and patients. Reach out to us to start this transformative journey.
