The technology age has ushered in a new era for the medical field. With the rapid advancement of medical devices, biotechnology breakthroughs, and digital health technology, these innovations reshape how care is delivered.
Telemedicine platforms have seen a dramatic uptake in adoption, wearable devices now empower individuals to monitor their health metrics in real-time and AI-driven tools are unlocking new capabilities to enhance patient care.
The pandemic significantly accelerated the digitization of health care. As highlighted in the HIMSS Future of Healthcare Report, patients, health care delivery organizations, and payer organizations now expect more tech-driven solutions.
As these and other technologies continue to evolve, physicians need to play an active role in shaping this transformation. While this article emphasizes the role of physicians, it's essential to recognize that all clinicians and patients possess invaluable insights.
These collective insights become more critical as the already billion-dollar health tech sector continues to expand. It highlights physicians' pivotal role in championing innovation and integrating new technologies into the health care system.
Why Clinical Insight Matters in Tech Innovation
Despite its rapid advancements, health tech often grapples with products that miss the mark in practical settings. This disconnect primarily stems from a lack of clinical input during the development phase.
Without the direct involvement of those on the front lines of patient care, tech solutions risk becoming overly complex or misaligned with actual needs. This oversight leads to wasted resources and investments and hinders the potential of technology to advance patient care.
Physicians possess a deep understanding of the clinical ecosystem and offer perspectives that can tailor innovations to address current priorities and user needs. These insights help ensure that solutions are not just technologically sophisticated but also relevant, practical, and patient-centric.
Opportunities for Physicians in Health Tech
From my experience teaching at various Harvard Medical School innovation and entrepreneurship programs, as well as other industry collaborations, I've encountered several ways physicians can make an impact on the health tech landscape. The following are a few notable examples:
- Clinical Needs Assessment
Before a product is developed, physicians can collaborate with tech companies, using their expertise to identify care delivery areas that require innovation. Your involvement guides the end product to becoming a meaningful device that addresses and resolves challenges.
When this essential step is prioritized in the early stages of a start-up, it often propels products to reach their full potential. Conversely, bypassing it can lead to products falling short of what they could have achieved.
- Product Beta-Testing
Once a product is conceptualized, it's time to test its viability in real-world settings. Physicians can assess functionality, highlight potential pitfalls, suggest improvements, and validate the product's efficacy. With continuous clinician feedback, this iterative process can produce an effective and user-friendly product.
- Advisory Roles
Physicians can take on formal advisory roles in health tech companies, guiding product roadmaps, strategic decisions, and clinical implementation. Participating on advisory boards allows you to collaborate with diverse experts, providing a perspective that shapes the company's trajectory.
- CMO Roles
Some physicians take on the role of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) in the industry. Companies value the skillset physicians offer in this position, bridging clinical practice with the technology world.
In the CMO capacity, you help guide product and company strategies, oversee regulatory compliance, and build vital stakeholder relationships. The role demands a blend of clinical expertise and business insight, underscored by leadership, teamwork, and clear communication.
Do physicians have to give up their day job?
Physicians can often balance their practice alongside roles in the industry. In fact, maintaining a clinical presence can be beneficial, providing ongoing insights into the dynamic world of health care and the associated medical challenges.
However, the commitment required can vary depending on the specific role. While some positions allow physicians to keep a foot in both worlds, others, especially executive ones like CMOs, might demand more time and focus.
You should be aware of these demands and be prepared to recalibrate or reduce your responsibilities based on the requirements of the position.
Getting Started
Several resources are available for physicians interested in exploring opportunities in the health technology industry.
First, you should get familiar with the latest trends in health tech in your specialty. This can be achieved through courses, workshops, or self-study. Medical schools, professional organizations, and health systems often have dedicated programs about clinical innovation.
Networking is crucial. Attending health care technology conferences, joining professional organizations, and direct engagement with health tech companies can open doors to collaboration.
Organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA), American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA), and the Health Care Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) offer resources for clinicians looking to delve into the health tech arena.
Additionally, online forums and LinkedIn groups are excellent platforms to stay updated on industry trends, highlight your expertise, and establish valuable connections.
Some physicians opt for advanced training, such as an MBA or a Master's in Health Informatics. However, it's feasible to significantly impact health care technology without pursuing these advanced degrees.
The Path Forward
The convergence of health care and technology offers physicians a wide range of opportunities to amplify their influence beyond conventional patient care. Whether through consulting, beta-testing, advisory roles, or leadership positions in the industry, the possibilities are numerous.
If you are excited about venturing into health care technology, now is the time to act. You can leverage your unique clinical insights and be a part of the revolution that's reshaping patient care for the better. The health tech industry awaits your expertise.
