Enhancing User-Centred Innovation: A Case Study on Video Diaries and Patient Experiences with a Medical Device Prototype

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In today's fast-paced healthcare industry, understanding the patient experience is crucial for manufacturers aiming to develop innovative medical devices and solutions. This case study delves into how a leading manufacturer successfully utilised Indeemo's video diary capabilities to gain valuable insights into patient behaviours, usage patterns, and attitudes toward a new medical device prototype. By adopting this research approach, the manufacturer was able to obtain comprehensive data, inform decision-making, and ultimately enhance the patient experience.


 
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Challenge

When our future client approached, they faced a critical challenge in comprehending the intricate nuances of the patient experience pertaining to their new medical device prototype. They sought to uncover valuable insights that would not only improve their understanding of patient behaviours and attitudes but also guide them in refining the device's design, functionality, and overall user experience. 

Initially, the research team and research ops manager had intended to conduct product testing experiments to gain insights into how research participants would interact with the medical device prototype. However, upon careful consideration, it became apparent that a controlled environment would not provide a true reflection of how patients would actually use the device in their daily lives.

Recognising the limitations of a controlled setting, our client realised the importance of capturing authentic patient experiences in real-life scenarios. They understood that genuine insights could only be obtained by observing patients in their natural environments, where contextual factors and personal routines play significant roles in shaping behaviour and attitudes.

 

 

Methodology

Researchers opted to leverage Indeemo's video diary capabilities, which allowed patients to capture their experiences and share their thoughts, emotions, and reactions using their smartphones. This approach provided an intimate and real-time glimpse into the patient's world, enabling the manufacturer to gain an in-depth understanding of their perspectives.

To commence the study, a diverse sample of patients who had used the medical device prototype was recruited. All participants were recruited from three different clinics using Indeemos QR Code sign up. Those who signed up were given access to the Indeemo mobile app, which served as a secure platform for recording their daily experiences over a specified period. Researchers provided clear instructions, encouraging participants to capture various aspects such as device usage, challenges encountered, impact on their lives, and overall satisfaction.

 

Fieldwork: Tasking and Duration

All at Once tasking was used for this project, which means that participants received the entirety of their tasks at the beginning of the fieldwork. Each task was framed around patients' real experiences and behaviours. As such, each time they needed to use the device they recorded their experience on Indeemo.

A total of ten patients were recruited for this project, and fieldwork lasted for a total of five days. These included both work days and weekend days for the researchers to compare the extent of usage between leisure and non leisure days.

 

10 Respondents

7 Tasks per week

5 Weeks

Strategy: All at Once Task List

 

Findings

The data collected offered invaluable insights into the patient experience of the medical device prototype. The findings revealed common usage patterns, pain points, and attitudes shared by the participants. By analysing the videos, researchers were able to identify recurring themes, understand contextual factors influencing usage, and gauge the emotional impact of the device on patients' lives.

The videos allowed researchers to observe patients in their natural environments, uncovering behavioural nuances that would have been difficult to capture through conventional research methods. From these observations, the manufacturer gained insights into device usability, areas for improvement, and unmet patient needs. These findings informed subsequent iterations of the prototype, resulting in a more patient-centric and user-friendly design.

In fact, these subsequent iterations were accompanied by an iterative research approach. As a result of the initial project, our client wanted to be in more frequent contact with the research participants. As a result, we worked with them further throughout the iteration process of their device. They adopted an “always on” approach with patients to continuously discover areas for improvement with their innovative offering before going to market.


 

Impact and Benefits

The video diary approach provided a holistic understanding of the patient experience, going beyond mere quantitative data. This comprehensive insight empowered the manufacturer to tailor the device's features and functionality to better align with patient needs.

Real-time Feedback

The video diary format enabled researchers to receive immediate and authentic feedback, capturing patients' raw emotions, challenges, and suggestions. This real-time feedback facilitated prompt adjustments and improvements to the prototype.

Improved Decision-Making

The rich data obtained from the video diaries served as a solid foundation for informed decision-making. It allowed the manufacturer to prioritise enhancements, address critical concerns, and align their strategies with the actual experiences of patients.

Competitive Advantage

By placing a strong emphasis on patient experience, the manufacturer gained a competitive edge. Their ability to develop a medical device prototype that truly resonated with patients contributed to increased adoption rates and improved customer satisfaction.

 

 
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Conclusion

This case study illustrates the significance of leveraging Indeemo's video diary capabilities to gain a deep understanding of the patient experience. By employing this research approach, the manufacturer successfully uncovered critical insights, refined their medical device prototype, and ultimately enhanced the overall patient experience. This emphasis on patient-centric design and functionality not only bolstered their reputation but also solidified their position as a leader in the healthcare industry.


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