Designing Technology for Better Healthcare Outcomes

Mexico faces a growing burden caused by chronic diseases and an aging population. To face it, the healthcare sector must focus on deploying user-centric innovation that prioritizes the needs of patients and health professionals, say experts. But for technology to be successful, it must be aligned with clinical objectives and the broader health ecosystem from the outset.

“Focusing on the user, primarily the physician, is key to maximizing the impact of healthcare innovations,” says Nicolás Vega, Head in Mexico, INTRAMED.

Despite the promise of technology, technology adoption in Mexico is limited by several challenges, including resistance to change among staff, budgetary constraints, and the complexity of integrating new systems with legacy infrastructure. “Mexico’s large, fragmented healthcare system, coupled with diverse population experiences, presents unique challenges for technology adoption,” says Ana Riquelme, Executive Director, AMID. 

Ensuring interoperability between platforms, safeguarding sensitive patient data, and training personnel to effectively use these tools requires careful planning. Successful implementation often depends on a phased approach, combining pilot programs with continuous monitoring and feedback. Hospitals must also develop clear protocols for data management and cybersecurity, while fostering a culture of collaboration between IT teams and clinical staff. Partnerships with technology providers and local health authorities can further support integration and scale-up.

Furthermore, technology should serve as a tool to solve clinical problems rather than an end in itself, says Rafael López, Founder, Diagnostikare. “Systematic involvement of patients and health professionals is crucial,” he adds, underscoring the need for continuous feedback loops in product design. López also highlights the necessity of a comprehensive evaluation framework for health technologies, citing the European Union as a benchmark. Trust, quality, and adoption are essential for successful implementation, while the Mexican market would benefit from a more mature regulatory framework.

To achieve this, both doctors and patients must be central to innovation. “It is essential that this technology remains user-centered, ensuring ease of use. Both academic institutions and medical professionals must be prepared to fully leverage its technological capabilities,” says Carlos Loyo, Commercial Director of Image Products, GE HealthCare.

Systemic thinking is also key to product development, says Gizela Sosa, Vice President of Product, Sofía, noting that observation and careful analysis of the healthcare environment are critical for meaningful innovation. “When a new proposal or innovation is introduced, it must meet the needs of patients, achieve cost savings, and deliver clinical outcomes,” says Sosa. She also stresses the importance of international references and continuous knowledge sharing to improve solutions.

“Innovation extends beyond technology generation and requires focus on medical education, clinical collaboration, and prevention,” says Vega. He highlights the need for strategic information sharing and stronger alliances across the healthcare community to ensure technology reaches its full potential. 

Experts agree that user-centric innovation in Mexico must balance accessibility, usability, and trust, while fostering collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem. Aligning technology with clinical objectives and strategic partnerships is crucial to improving healthcare outcomes nationwide.