User research and co-creation in healthcare systems

Chronic disease and conditions related to an unhealthy lifestyle have reached epidemic proportions and are rising still. This presents a momentous challenge for our current healthcare system.

Looking at the problem from a design perspective shows that there are many gaps in the way that current approaches relate to people’s daily lives and motivations. Designing from the individual’s point of view could provide the key to solutions that work.

Working with partners in Bolton and Kent counties, the UK Design Council explored ways to create new healthcare systems and prototyped innovative services for self-managing chronic conditions and maintaining healthier lifestyles.

A brand new website details the user research and co-design that went into developing prototypes of co-created healthcare systems in Kent – to encourage active ageing, and in Bolton to develop systems to help people live better with type 2 diabetes.

Together, they point towards a radical new model of healthcare organisation: Open Health.