In the ever-evolving landscape of medical device development, usability and innovation intersect significantly. The perspectives of developers and end-users converge to shape the future of medical technology. In part one of this blog series, we hear the insights of Innokas QA&RA specialists on usability engineering, where it’s explored how to exactly account for this often overlooked but crucial part of product development. This is how clinical affairs specialist Parisa Farzanehkari describes her journey. 

Healthcare experience as key for understanding usability in medical device development 

As a healthcare professional, I've had the opportunity to utilize various medical devices for different purposes. In the operating room many medical devices are used for anesthesia, patient monitoring, surgical assistance, and more. Occasionally, while using these devices across different patients and conditions, it became evident that certain aspects of user experience were not adequately addressed. As a nurse who used those devices or provided assistance in using them, it was apparent to me how much more beneficial and efficient these devices could be if designed with the user and usage aspects in mind. From my experience, even the most innovative device can prove ineffective if user-related issues are overlooked. A device may be highly beneficial for one group of users or in certain use environments but entirely impractical for another. 

I have always been mindful of this matter, recognizing that if I were to influence the production process of medical devices, I would prioritize incorporating the perspectives of patients and medical users. By integrating user-related aspects into the development process, I wished to contribute to the creation of safer and more efficient medical devices that truly benefit patients in the best possible way. This concern was coupled with my passion for improving healthcare through innovation and technology and guided me to the wonderful world of medical device development. 

Motivation and purpose in healthcare innovation 

At Innokas, in my role as a clinical affairs specialist, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to put all these passions, concerns, and ideas into action. Here at Innokas, our team of experts is engaged in a meaningful and fulfilling job by facilitating the route of medical and healthcare innovations reaching patients in need. We provide various quality and regulatory services among which usability engineering is one of the most important. 

Usability testing in practice 

To me, taking care of the usability aspect of medical device development is not only important and fulfilling but also interesting and enjoyable. This is because it mostly involves presenting the prototypes of the planned device to actual users in simulated real-world environments to examine their interaction with it. This process often reveals surprises, as new aspects of the device which you and your colleagues may not have previously considered, come to light. Through this experience, you learn to think flexibly. It's enjoyable to encounter diverse users and operating environments depending on the device's intended purpose and target market, facilitating interactions and knowledge-sharing with people of various backgrounds. Additionally, this allows traveling to different locations to simulate real-world usage scenarios as accurately as possible. 

At Innokas, I've had the opportunity to pursue what I have always aspired to: improving the healthcare sector through innovative technologies to help people live better lives. Being involved in ensuring the safety and performance of the devices has been rewarding. Working in an expert, efficient, supportive, and friendly team at Innokas has undoubtedly been a highlight of my professional life. 

An experienced partner guides the development 

Innokas is a trusted partner for navigating the complexities of usability engineering in medical device development. Whether you're at the conceptual stage or fine-tuning your product for market release, Innokas offers a suite of services tailored to address your usability concerns. From training and guidance to hands-on support, our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve success in bringing innovative medical solutions to life. Leave us a contact form through the link below and we will get back to you as soon as possible! 

Author 

Parisa Farzanehkari 

Clinical affairs specialist  

parisa.farzanehkari@innokas.eu