The role of patients and carers in device design: the Healthcare Technology Cooperative (HTC) model

2006 Conference

Designing and Developing New Products to Manage Incontinence

Incontinence can affect 1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 men at sometime in their lives. Products to manage this embarrassing and isolating condition are essential to enable people with bladder and bowel problems the security they need to enhance their quality of life. We realise however, that often the people who use these products are consulted only once a prototype is available, and in many cases this may be too little too late.

This paper will present some of the issues that surround user involvement in product design such as who pays, who benefits, dealing with confidentiality and managing expectations. Time will be given for relaxed and open discussion on how and when consultation on new products should take place.

The BioMed Healthcare Technology Co-operative is based at the Bristol Urological Institute and brings together world acclaimed expertise from medicine, academia, industry and the voluntary sector. Our aim is to co-ordinate the development of innovative products designed to manage this disabling condition, from conception stage to manufacture and uptake. We recognise that your involvement is essential help us to get it right.