Reimagining how chronic pain patients find and manage their care

Healthcare is not easy to navigate and is generally filled with anxious and unpleasant emotions. Dorsal Health provides users with easy-to-use, accessible, and affordable medical help geared towards improving chronic pain and musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders.

Roles:

Lead Design
User Experience
Prototyping
Project Management

Problem

Chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders represent the second largest source of medical spend in the US. Patients struggle to find relief in a disjointed system—they often don’t know where to turn for help. The severity of chronic pain and the confusion around the process contributes heavily to the opioid epidemic. It’s a result of lack of access and uneducated users.

Opportunity

Healthcare is expensive. Insurance is confusing. Chronic pain specialists are hard to access especially in rural areas. Appointment availability can be inconsistent and, it can be hard to get a second opinion. Users often don’t feel empowered or in control of their healthcare. They don’t know where to turn, and the often don’t know that they can do things to help themselves.

Business Hypothesis

Through a monthly subscription model, Dorsal keeps costs transparent and low. Users are assigned to a care team consisting of a doctor, health coach, and physical therapist. This care team works together with their patients and patients can message their care team, anytime, 24/7. Virtual appointments are always available within 2 days, and patients who live in health deserts can gain access to world-class care.

Project Solution

Design a mobile app that allows Dorsal Health patients to schedule appointments, meet with the members of their care team, check the status on their medication, learn about how to improve their condition, and more. Create a platform that provides control, visibility and resources for our patients.

New patient paperwork is often cumbersome and long, but necessary. Branded visuals, progress indicators, and clear copy improve this otherwise tedious task.

The appointment scheduler intentionally presents the next few days, showcasing near-term availability and allowing users to book sooner rather than later.

A front and center to-do list keeps patients organized as keeping track of medicine, physical therapy, and appointments can be difficult.

Users book three appointments at a time, one with a physician, one with a care coordinator, and one with a physical therapist. The scheduling flow utilizes subtle rewards and breaks.