From Intervention to Innovation: Health Information Technology

Health information technology is changing the way we deliver quality care, and improves our ability to access and treat patients, particularly those in remote or health resource-poor communities and those most at-risk. As healthcare providers, we find ourselves competing with businesses, friends and family members for the patient’s attention and time. To develop effective interventions, a systems approach to analysis and improvement is required that considers cultural, human and environmental factors. New models of care will require that physicians take a proactive approach to managing patients’ health and wellness, collaboratively. Our patients are constantly assaulted by stimuli, some of them traditional, others products of technology. To enable behavior change, we must devise effective methods of engaging our patients. We propose that healthcare innovations should be developed to focus on the patient’s experience and portability. The design of these innovations should promote competence and confidence and provide the requisite level of functionality required by the user. Effective innovations must begin with the patient. As appropriate, designing in certain elements, Gamification, Phygital™, and Social Engagement are essential to engage patients. Integrating these innovations into healthcare delivery can bring about definitive public health benefits.

Keywords: Behavior, design thinking, digital, eHealth, EMRs, gamification, global health, health information technology, innovation, lifestyle diseases, mHealth, mobile, obesity, overweight, patient engagement, patient experience, risk, telehealth, wellness.