Some health technologies are well considered, thoughtfully designed, have been iteratively improved over several cycles of continuous improvement and focus on the needs of users from an extensive understanding of their behaviours.
Others, quite frankly, aren’t.
You may well find yourself being presented with an app or product that looks ok, but under the surface really doesn’t do what you would want it to and doesn’t fit with how you work. At this stage, no matter how well intentioned the company/people are who have given you this ‘gift’ it’s probably best to return it politely.
I know that may go against the grain for us as healthcare professionals who try to see the full potential of everything.
However, just like a gift horse, the product will need your time and energy to look after it. If it isn’t what you want and it doesn’t work for you, it will waste your time. Which will ultimately mean less time for your other responsibilities (your patients, your team etc.).
Better to say no now rather than in 12 months when you’ve wasted hours investing in the solution to the problem that no one has.
However, if the health tech product is almost there, and could do what you want with a bit of tweaking, you can offer to work with the developers if you want to. This is a great learning experience and can produce something really special. Just don’t underestimate the time it will take and try to make a cool-headed decision about whether it is worth investing your precious time. Check out the blog on design if you want to know more.