A Patient-Centered Approach in Sensor Science: Embracing Patient Engagement for Translational Clinical Technologies

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Healthcare Technology
• Sensor Science

Background:

• Sensor science holds potential for personalized clinical technologies and improved healthcare.
• Despite advancements, many sensor innovations fail to translate from lab to clinical application.
• A gap exists between sensor research and real-world clinical needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a patient-centered approach for sensor development.
• To guide researchers in engaging patients throughout the sensor research process.
• To improve the adoption and impact of sensor technologies in healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Developing guidelines and resources for patient engagement in sensor research.
• Presenting examples of implementing a patient-centered approach.
• Shifting focus from technical specifications to patient needs.

Main Results:

• A patient-centered approach can better align sensor technologies with clinical needs.
• Early and continuous patient engagement informs sensor specifications.
• This approach can bridge the translational gap for sensor innovations.

Conclusions:

• Adopting a patient-centered approach is crucial for impactful sensor design.
• Collaboration and evolution within the sensor science community can be fostered.
• Prioritizing patient needs enhances the translation of sensor technology into clinical practice.