While at HLTH Europe , I found there was a notable focus on preventative healthcare , accompanied by tense remarks about the profitability of preventive technologies versus treatments for existing illnesses . Another aspect of this discussion highlighted the challenge that simply providing education and information isn ’ t always enough without proper incentives . Many are aware of the risks of smoking , yet continue the habit . In this month ’ s editor ’ s question , I explore how technology can effectively prevent illnesses and motivate users to prioritise their health .

Hilary Stephenson , Managing Director at Nexer Digital

Using technology to improve preventive healthcare relies on two key things : trust and ease of use . This may sound straightforward , but the reality is that much of the resistance to HealthTech arises from a lack of trust or poor user experience . To overcome these barriers , innovations must prioritise usability and accessibility .

Patients need to feel that the technology they use is reliable , secure and effective . This trust is built when people have positive and consistent experiences with technology that meet or exceed their expectations . Usability is just as important . If a digital tool is hard to use or inaccessible , patients will be less likely to use it consistently or at all . Therefore , any HealthTech that wants to succeed must focus on intuitive design and inclusivity , so it ’ s easy for everyone to use , regardless of age , ability or digital confidence .

Artificial Intelligence can help by making interactions more personalised . AI can learn from users and adapt to their needs in real-time , making the experience more engaging and user-friendly . For example , adjusting the tone or pace of interactions . This personalised approach can help build positive habits and meet user expectations , enhancing the likelihood of adoption .

While human interaction in healthcare can never be replaced , more humanlike tech experiences can reduce the administrative burden on healthcare providers and free up capacity by empowering patients to manage their own care where appropriate . For example , providing quick and reliable information through AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants . These tools can guide patients to the right resources , making the initial stages of getting help more efficient . However , we need to ensure these transitions are smooth and patients don ’ t feel like they ’ re being pushed away from getting real medical help . Service design and endto-end usability testing with users are important , as sign-posting to online resources and third-party services

Hilary Stephenson , Managing Director at Nexer Digital

is only valuable if those resources themselves are accessible and useful .

We recently worked with Health Innovation Manchester to explore public perceptions of the benefits and risks of sharing data and ultimately create secure environments for patient data-sharing practices . The project found that by having strong protections and clear rules and communication , we can build trust , so patients feel safe sharing their health information . Once shared securely , AI can use this data to offer better triage solutions , combining different pieces of information into a smooth patient journey .

To drive behavioural changes among future patients , we need to focus on giving them control over their health and data . Being transparent about how their data is used and showing them the benefits it brings to their personal healthcare can incentivise people to engage more . By offering clear value through better health outcomes and more efficient care , patients will be more likely to trust and adopt these technologies .

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