Talking HealthTech: 377 – What Patients Want

As technology continues to advance, so do patient expectations for efficient, accessible, and personalised healthcare. At the recent Talking HealthTech Winter Summit, Richard Skimin from Instantscripts and Berne Gibbons from Infomedix spoke live with Peter Birch from Talking HealthTech about the nuanced topic of what patients truly want and how healthcare providers and tech companies can effectively meet those expectations.

The Importance of Time Management

Efficient use of time is at the heart of a productive healthcare system. Data sharing and interoperability are essential for streamlining operations. By breaking down information silos and creating an integrated system, healthcare providers can focus more on delivering timely and optimal patient care.

Navigating Legislation and Interoperability

Healthcare legislation often serves as a catalyst for fostering a connected ecosystem. Adherence to open standards is crucial for facilitating seamless information exchange, which in turn can lead to improved patient outcomes. It’s vital for both healthcare providers and patients to be educated about their roles in a connected healthcare system.

Addressing Gender-Specific Needs

Gender plays a significant role in healthcare accessibility. For example, men often delay seeking medical advice, leading to late-stage diagnoses that are harder to treat. Technology like telehealth can reduce barriers and make it easier for men to seek timely care. Understanding these gender-specific needs helps in delivering more effective healthcare solutions.

Patient-Centric Focus

A patient is not just a set of symptoms or a number in a queue; they’re a complex individual with unique needs and preferences. Therefore, education and empowerment are key. Patients need to understand how to navigate the healthcare system and how to access their medical information.

Healthcare Consumerisation and Managing Expectations

The rise of healthcare consumerisation is changing the way patients interact with healthcare services. Patients now expect the same level of convenience from healthcare that they get from other consumer-focused industries. While platforms like My Health Record are a step forward, more comprehensive solutions are required to meet patient demands fully.

The Dual Role of Convenience and Clinical Care

Patients increasingly seek both convenience and high-quality clinical care. While some services may be easily consumerised, other, more complex areas of care require expertise and a measured approach. This duality poses a unique challenge for HealthTech companies aiming to simplify healthcare while maintaining clinical efficacy.

Tailoring Services for Patient Segments

Just as in any other industry, different customer segments in healthcare have unique needs and expectations. Younger patients may prioritise digital access and a variety of services, while older individuals might focus on reliability and reduced wait times. Understanding these needs allows for more personalised healthcare services, meeting patient expectations more effectively.

Conclusion

Understanding patient expectations is crucial for any healthcare provider or technology company aiming to make a meaningful impact. By focusing on interoperability, time management, and patient education, as well as recognising the unique needs of different demographics, we can pave the way for a healthcare system that is both efficient and patient-centric. Collaboration and technology play key roles in meeting these challenges and unlocking the potential for truly personalised care.

_{Source talkinghealthtech.com}