The Life-or-Death Importance of UX in Health Tech
In the world of healthcare technology, user experience (UX) design isn’t just about creating intuitive interfaces – it can literally be a matter of life and death. Bonnie Moss, President and founder of Moss Networks, explains why getting the details right in health tech UX is crucial.
Technology is increasingly shaping how we interact with the world around us. From smartphones to wearables and smart homes, we’re constantly receiving guidance from our devices. The best technology builds upon UX breakthroughs from various sectors, creating a universal design language that’s familiar and accessible to everyone. However, in healthcare, the stakes are much higher, making thoughtful design critical.
Characteristics of Good UX in Health Tech
Good UX in health tech prioritizes clarity over complexity. The most effective interfaces eliminate anything non-essential, as every extra step or decision increases the risk of user error, particularly in emergency situations. For instance:
- OralCam, a smartphone-based tool for at-home oral health checks, uses clear visual cues and accessible language to help users identify potential issues early.
- The app guides users through decision-making processes with step-by-step instructions and intuitive flows, ensuring they know what to do next, even under stress.
Designing for high-pressure scenarios is essential. Buttons should be large, text easy to read, and interfaces forgiving of mistakes. Testing under simulated stress helps identify potential failure points. Moreover, health tech should build on established interaction models, avoiding unfamiliar gestures or unproven interface patterns that could confuse users when it matters most.
Saving Lives Through Design
There are instances where good design can literally save lives. The Defibrio portable automated external defibrillator (AED) is a prime example. Created in partnership with Rightpoint, Defibrio turns a user’s smartphone into a defibrillator, guiding them through treating someone with sudden cardiac arrest using simple animations and clear voice prompts. Human factors testing showed that users responded faster and more confidently when instructions were simplified.
This human-centered approach not only applies to life-saving moments but also enables independent living. For example, Smart Tights for Stroke Patients use gentle haptic cues to support rehabilitation and balance, demonstrating how thoughtful design can create tools that support both independence and dignity.
The Power of Invisible Design
When design is done well, it fades into the background, quietly helping people do what they need to do. As technology becomes increasingly embedded in our lives, thoughtful design is essential not just for convenience, but for accessibility, equity, and safety. The best interfaces anticipate what people need, especially in critical moments.
In conclusion, the role of UX in health tech cannot be overstated. By prioritizing clarity, simplicity, and user-centered design, healthcare technology can become more than just efficient – it can be life-saving.
