In July this year, Wessex Academic Health Science Network published a report titled, ‘How to involve and engage patients in digital health tech innovation.’
The report concluded that, by adopting core principles, digital innovators could continually improve their product, better communicate its value and improve patient trust.
Matt Whitty, Chief Executive of the Accelerated Access Collaborative and Director of Innovation, Research and Life Sciences, NHS England & NHS Improvement, commented at the time:
“Patient-centred digital technology is an increasingly important aspect of a dynamic and sustainable health system.
“By ensuring patients are involved in developing these digital technologies we will create solutions that best meet their needs.”
I have to say, the report and Mr Whitty’s comments resonated with me.
I am an official Public Patient Voice Partner with NHS Innovation for the NHS Accelerated Access Collaborative.
I have used my lived-experience of brain-injury and marketing to contribute to the development of several health tech applications: neuroproactive.com, My Neuro Health, Best Suite from California and Face 2 Face.
There are five key reasons why I believe patients are a powerful source of insight who can help to shape the solutions which they need most.
1. Patients can spot opportunities
Each patient who returns home following treatment will have opinions about where there is scope for improvement. They will have noticed which of their needs were unmet during their treatment.
That experience may have sparked an idea, or may have revealed a potential gap in the market that your product would be perfect for.
2. Patients are highly motivated
I am involved in several patient Action Groups. I have heard many patient speaks about their desire to use their experience to make the system better for others in the future.
During rehabilitation or convalescence, they might have time to give you their first-hand knowledge of the pain points in the system for their own condition.
3. Patients are problem-solvers
Patients are driven by the need for an immediate resolution to their problems because they are suffering in that moment.
Therefore, they tend to develop skills for solving the problems they face. They can be imaginative and resourceful to find a way through.
4. Patients can stop you from making mistakes
Listening to patients’ experiences gives developers the chance to take corrective steps.
This could save you vast sums of money and countless man hours later down the line.
5. Patients can add granular detail
By virtue of their lived-experience of their condition, patients can offer insight into their specific needs. They can make connections which are less obvious to an independent onlooker.
Therefore, patients are a valuable source of pre-emptive intelligence. Like a canary in a coalmine, patients can help avoid disasters.
Ultimately, with patients as co-developers in your team, you will have the chance to deliver a better product.
I urge every developer in health tech to include a patient Advisory Board in their set-up from the outset.
