Health device makers, to date, have primarily targeted consumers who are either fitness focused or chronically ill. But between these two extremes sits a large, fragmented and often overlooked population who seek better information to effectively manage their health. Our research suggests that successful solution providers will approach this market opportunity as an ecosystem of partners - with an integrated solution that extends beyond the device itself.
By plugging the information gap for these consumers, solution providers can help fuel healthcare innovation.
For some years now, medical device makers have provided products and services for consumers who are extremely health or fitness conscious as well as those who need to be regularly monitored because of a serious health risk. And they've been quite successful within these consumer segments. At the end of 2009, the size of the global medical device market was US$290 billion.
As impressive as this is, device makers are generally overlooking a far larger consumer segment that we call Information Seekers. These consumers are relatively healthy, but could use some help managing a health-related challenge. They are looking for solutions that can provide missing information to
help them gain greater control over their conditions and ultimately lead healthier, more independent lives.
Thoughts, comments, news, and reflections about healthcare IT from Microsoft's worldwide health senior director Bill Crounse, MD, on how information technology can improve healthcare delivery and services around the world.
Health device makers, to date, have primarily targeted consumers who are either fitness focused or chronically ill. But between these two extremes sits a large, fragmented and often overlooked population who seek better information to effectively manage their health. Our research suggests that successful solution providers will approach this market opportunity as an ecosystem of partners - with an integrated solution that extends beyond the device itself.
By plugging the information gap for these consumers, solution providers can help fuel healthcare innovation.
