Encouraging Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Design in Healthcare through HCD

Introduction to Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Design in Healthcare

In this third topic in our series on sustainability and ethical design through HCD, we focus on the environmental aspect, and how it specifically targets the protection of natural assets [1]. We also focus on the importance of using HCD to ensure ecological sustainability and ethical design in healthcare, specifically aiming to create positive outcomes without harming the environment [1]. Furthermore, the growing urgency to address ecological challenges requires innovative approaches that balance human needs with environmental responsibility. This is where HCD comes in and provides a framework for solutions that prioritize both. Developers can address environmental concerns by integrating sustainability with HCD while delivering positive user-focused outcomes.

Empowering Users for Positive Environmental Impact

HCD empowers users to make decisions that support the long-term and short-term goals of environmental sustainability. Furthermore, HCD can be used to educate and engage users in environmentally beneficial processes. For instance, HCD can create products and services that teach users sustainable practices that ensure long-term behavioral change. For instance, smart home systems can track energy consumption and provide insights on how users can decrease their carbon footprint while also sensing harmful environments such as high carbon monoxide exposure. Furthermore, HCD can utilize digital health solutions such as telemedicine and wearables to decrease the need for traveling to the doctor. This can also reduce the need for physical resources while still encouraging access to care. Additionally, HCD creates workflows that encourage providers to reduce waste. For instance, providers can use digital prescribing systems that reduce the need for paper, while also minimizing potential errors that could lead to adverse health effects [2]. Overall, HCD fosters sustainable healthcare practices that promote environmental sustainability and ethical design while still focusing on uplifting the user experience. 

Designing Sustainable Systems in Healthcare

Another way that HCD maintains environmental sustainability in healthcare is by creating systems that reduce waste. This can be done by creating sustainable supply chains that optimize resources efficiently. For instance, reusable surgical instruments and packaging that are biodegradable prioritize environmental sustainability and ethical design while still protecting patient safety. Furthermore, medical devices should be created with long-term usage in mind so that they don’t have to be replaced often [3]. This will also reduce costs for patients who may need to pay to get medical devices replaced or fixed. Furthermore, when medical devices do need to be replaced, they should be done so with improved recycling systems and processes [3]. This means that their material selection must be eco-conscious, for instance, a reusable or recyclable material can be used over plastic [3]. Furthermore, the manufacturing process and distribution can be enhanced to reduce waste and carbon footprint [3]. Additionally, HCD can reduce the carbon footprints of hospitals and healthcare facilities while still maintaining comfort for users. Therefore, there are several ways that HCD can be used to promote environmentally sustainable and ethical design while still prioritizing care for patients. 

Importance of Integrating Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Design through HCD

Sustainability in healthcare is essential for positive global environmental outcomes. However, it must be done in a way that still promotes equity in care and without compromising quality. HCD provides a framework for balancing the needs of patients, providers, and the environment. Furthermore, HCD empowers users to promote environmentally sustainable and ethical innovation. This allows for a resilient future that supports sustainable healthcare options while still prioritizing global health outcomes. Furthermore, HCD enables patients to have positive health outcomes while protecting the planet for future generations. 

References

1. https://www.futurelearn.com/info/courses/sustainable-business/0/steps/78337
2. https://www.dynamsoft.com/blog/insights/improving-patient-access-and-provider-efficiency-with-e-prescriptions/#:~:text=How%20do%20e%2DPrescriptions%20Streamline,and%20facilitate%20better%20inventory%20management.
3. https://inside.battelle.org/blog-details/building-sustainability-into-medical-devices
4. https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/embracing-social-sustainability-and-ethical-design-in-healthcare-through-hcd/
5. https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/focusing-on-human-sustainability-and-ethical-design-in-healthcare-through-hcd/

HITS

HITS provides healthcare management services & works with doctors to develop health informatics tools that promote safe and secure care. We take pride in our services and settle for nothing other than 100% quality solutions for our clients. Having the right team assist with data sharing is crucial to encouraging collaborative and secure care. HITS also focuses on transforming health care by analyzing integrated medical solutions and evaluating information systems. Our goal is to enhance individual and population health outcomes, improve patient care, and strengthen the clinician-patient relationship by incorporating HCD practices.