At Theratrak, co-design isn't a new trend for us - it's the foundation of everything we build.
From day one, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with therapists and participants to create a tool that doesn’t just meet clinical needs but transforms the way therapy is delivered. We’ve consistently conducted interviews, deep-dived into practical applications, and created features based on real case studies and feedback from our users.
And what is co-design within allied health?
Co-design is the process of including and integrating the people who will be using the tools into the product development process. This means product creators can get real-life insights when brainstorming, planning, implementing and new developments process for technology and digital tools.
Clinicians and therapists use Theratrak on a daily basis within their 1:1 sessions to prescribe custom home therapy programs.
Participants use the free Theratrak app to tick off activities and track their home therapy program progress.
By involving both therapists and participants in the development process, we’ve been able to create a digital tool that truly meets the needs of allied health professionals and the communities they serve.
Here we explore recent research on the impact of co-design in healthcare and how essential the co-design approach is for creating solutions that are practical, effective, and user-friendly.
Breaking Down Barriers & Red Tape in Allied Healthcare Innovation
A recent study on the co-design of healthcare services revealed that one of the biggest challenges to innovation is bureaucracy. Some allied health clinics have complex systems and rigid structures often prevent new ideas from taking hold.
But by embracing a co-design approach, Theratrak has been able to support clinics to adopt game-changing technology and ensure that our platform remains adaptable to the needs of real users.
While it’s not always easy to have a co-design approach, the time and effort invested to wade through the clinician requirements creates positive outcomes for users.
Because we’ve always been focused on therapists and participants, Theratrak is able to stay focused on what matters most - creating a solution that makes therapy more effective and accessible.
How we break down barriers through co-design at Theratrak
The Theratrak team is dedicated to continuously listening to feedback and making changes that reflect the actual experiences of those using the platform. This approach ensures that Theratrak remains a flexible and responsive tool, even in the sometimes slow-moving healthcare environment.
Inclusive Innovation and Why Diversity in Co-Design Matters
The same study on co-design in Australia highlighted the importance of including people in the co-design process who have lived experience, and the importance of incorporating a diverse range of people in the co-design process.
From health consumers to healthcare professionals, a wide range of perspectives is essential to ensure solutions are inclusive and adaptable to a variety of needs within the community.
How we focus on inclusive co-design at Theratrak
By involving participants of all ages, backgrounds, and therapy goals, Theratrak has been able to create a platform that works across a broad spectrum of therapy needs. Whether it’s a child with sensory challenges or an adult working on fine motor skills, Theratrak’s customisable programs are designed to fit the unique needs of every participant.
This diversity of our co-design participants has enriched the platform and has created better outcomes for our therapists and participants alike.
Next steps for Theratrak even more accessible and inclusive design
Recent feedback from Theratrak therapists has shown that users particularly appreciate our step-by-step guides and video features, which make therapy easier to manage for both therapists and participants.
While we have a commitment to accessibility and have made major updates to make the app more inclusive, we've had more valuable suggestions for improving accessibility, including requests for cross-device support, and multilingual options.
Enhancing Participant-Centred Care Through Co-Design
At its heart, co-design is about enhancing participant-centred care, a philosophy that puts the individual at the centre of the therapy process.
From the moment a therapist creates a custom home therapy program to the follow-up communication with participants, every step of the process is designed to make therapy more personal and effective.
How we do research and co-design at Theratrak
Since 2018, the Theratrak team has sought out world-class research partners to learn about how our allied health clinicians use digital tools for better outcomes.
In 2021, we partnered with Western Sydney University to research who our users are and how our participants engage with our digital tools. By actively seeking feedback from users and collaborating with research partners, we’re constantly refining our features to ensure they deliver the maximum impact.
Co-designed Features Feedback on Theratrak
Therapists have told us that features like video components are critical, especially for participants with limited reading or writing capabilities.
We've also implemented customisable notifications, secure asynchronous family communication tools, and - gamification features for participants all suggestions based on direct user feedback. This ongoing collaboration with our therapists means every aspect of Theratrak is designed to make therapy more effective and accessible.
While Theratrak simplifies home therapy programs, some families face technology-related difficulties - especially in rural and regional areas.
This feedback has motivated us to explore ways to make the app even more user-friendly for all levels of tech literacy.
Co-Design a Catalyst for Better Outcomes in Allied Health Therapy
Co-design is a powerful tool for creating healthcare solutions that work. Involving the people in the co-design and development process can ensure that new innovations are practical, effective, and tailored to real-world needs.
At Theratrak, co-design is a fundamental part of how we operate. We regularly engage with therapists and participants for targeted feedback to make our digital tools better.
Every piece of feedback helps us grow, and we invite all therapists to be a part of our platform evolution.
As we continue to innovate and grow, we remain committed to this collaborative co-design approach, ensuring that Theratrak evolves alongside the needs of the allied health community.
With Theratrak, therapists can focus on what they do best - providing care - while the platform takes care of the administrative work, making therapy more efficient and impactful.
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of a truly co-designed platform, book a demo today and see how Theratrak can make a difference in your clinic.
If you’re already a Theratrak user and would like to share feedback with the team, please get in touch with us here.
