My Allergy Passport
Introduction
In the realm of severe allergy management, every second is precious. Yet, existing solutions often fall short in delivering efficient communication and support during critical moments. Enter: My Allergy Passport & Wearable. This project is not just about functionality; it's about redefining user experience to ensure seamless interactions and enhanced safety.
Problem & Understanding
Problem
Presently, individuals with allergies rely on the Medic Alert system to communicate their allergies to medical professionals and those in their vicinity. However, this system operates on a dated platform, requiring constant monitoring and cumbersome verification processes. The inefficiency of this system results in static and outdated data, posing significant challenges in emergency situations. Furthermore, there is currently no comprehensive system in place for individuals to track their allergic reaction history or consolidate their allergy-related medical information.
Why
In the event of a severe allergic reaction, time is of the essence, and access to accurate information is crucial for effective treatment. Unfortunately, allergy sufferers often find themselves unable to communicate effectively or think clearly during such emergencies. This lack of effective communication tools not only hinders their ability to inform others about their allergies and action plans but also poses significant risks to their well-being. Given the advancements in technology and data sharing, there is a pressing need to modernize the current medic alert wearables.
Hypothesis
Individuals with severe allergies require a comprehensive solution to manage, store, and track their allergy-related data. They seek an all-in-one platform that allows them to provide access to this vital information to those around them in the event of an emergency, while also ensuring accuracy and accessibility for their healthcare teams.
Business Opportunities
There exist lucrative opportunities for businesses like Medic Alert to embrace the integration of an app like this, thus modernizing their product offerings. Additionally, manufacturers of Epi-Pens and other epinephrine-based medications could leverage such an app as a value-added service for their users. The potential for synergy with emerging technologies, such as the non-invasive wearable being developed by the Wyss Institute in collaboration with Boston Children’s Hospital, further enhances the appeal and functionality of this app.
New Tech
By incorporating cutting-edge technology, this app has the potential to attract a new segment of customers who may not have previously considered wearing a medic alert device. Moreover, it can serve as a means to re-engage past customers by offering enhanced features and functionality.
Partnerships
Strategic partnerships with medical professionals, ephedrine and anti-histamine manufacturers can significantly bolster the reach and impact of this app. Collaborating with key stakeholders in the healthcare industry can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes, including improved patient care and increased market penetration.
Leverage Informatics
By facilitating seamless communication and sharing of vital allergy-related information between patients, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders, the app can empower individuals to take control of their health outcomes. This patient-centric approach not only enhances overall healthcare delivery but also fosters greater trust and engagement among users.
The UX Journey
- Users require a simpler method to track and store allergy data.
- Medic Alert bracelets are inefficient and expensive.
- Users often withhold allergy information unless necessary.
Bridging Gaps, Enhancing Accessibility
Challenge One
Simplify the process of storing and updating allergy information for users.
Challenge two
Design an intuitive interface for swift communication during emergencies.
an Allergy Management Ecosystem
My Allergy Passport APp
- Streamlined interface for easy allergy data management.
- Intuitive emergency communication features for swift access to vital information.
Wearable Technology Integration
The app could be paired well with a non-invasive wearable that could sense anaphylaxis, being developed by the the Wyss Institute, in collaboration with Boston Children’s Hospital and the KeepSmilin4Abbie Foundation. Together they have a newly developed sensor technology called abbieSense, an electrochemical sensor platform technology that can quickly diagnose anaphylaxis based on histamine levels.
- Seamless integration with wearable devices for real-time monitoring.
- User-centric design for clear display of emergency information via QR code.
The app could be paired well with a non-invasive wearable that could sense anaphylaxis, being developed by the the Wyss Institute, in collaboration with Boston Children’s Hospital and the KeepSmilin4Abbie Foundation. Together they have a newly developed sensor technology called abbieSense, an electrochemical sensor platform technology that can quickly diagnose anaphylaxis based on histamine levels.
Flows and sketches
- Updating Allergy Record: Simplify adding new allergies and relevant data.
- Logging a New Reaction: Aid users in tracking reaction history effectively.
User Testing & Iteration
Key learnings from user testing via Maze and 1:1 user testing interviews.
- Guided Forms are Key: Users needed more guidance in form completion.
- Go with the Natural Flow: Positioning of action buttons affected user experience.
UPDATING AN ALLERGY RECORD
Sydney needs to quickly update her allergy record.
- She has a new allergy to add to her list of allergies
- She can update her list anytime and trust that her data will be accurate when it counts
- She can add things like severity, symptoms and emergency actions associated with that particular allergy
LOGGING A NEW REACTION
- Sydney benefits from tracking allergic reactions to identify patterns and inform future management decisions.
- She records reaction details such as date, severity, allergen, and treatment actions.Data collected aids.
- Sydney and her health team in analyzing allergy trends and enhancing understanding.
DIGITAL SHARE CARD ACCESSED VIA SCANNING
Sydney experiences an allergic reaction away from home without her close family or friends nearby. As she struggles to assess the severity of her reaction, her ability to think clearly diminishes. Thankfully, her co-worker notices her distress and Sydney gestures towards her wearable.
- Time is often lost due to subjective assessment of reaction severity.
- Distressed individuals struggle to communicate effectively, hindering emergency response.
- Paramedics face challenges piecing together medical history during emergencies.
- Bystanders and professionals can swiftly access vital information via wearable QR code.
- Approved data includes allergies, medical conditions, Epi-pen location, and emergency contacts.
REMINDERS AND WIDGETS
Reminders enhance user convenience and usability. Currently, the focus is on Epi-pen replacement reminders and app widgets displaying key anaphylaxis indicators.
- Epinephrine medication expires annually, often overlooked.
- Sydney can store prescription details and expiry dates, receiving timely replacement reminders.
- Notifications appear in device banners for easy access.
Key Anaphylaxis Indicator Warning
The wearable monitors Sydney’s Key Anaphylaxis Indicators. These are displayed in the app and device widgets for easy access. If a potential reaction is detected, the app sends a warning notification to Sydney.
- Sydney can opt to contact emergency services, her emergency contacts, or dismiss the notification.
Shaping the Future of Allergy Management
My Allergy Passport & Wearable is not just a design concept; it's a testament to the transformative power of UX design. By prioritizing user experience and accessibility, we're not only revolutionizing allergy management but also empowering individuals to navigate their health with confidence and ease.
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