Design Thinking Framework for the Development of Innovative Product-Service-Systems in Patient Physical Rehabilitation

Innovation is a crucial catalyst for a patient’s self-sufficiency during their rehabilitation process. The project outlined in this paper aims to create better patient outcomes through effective home-based care with a predominately self-managed physical rehabilitation system by developing innovative product-service systems (PSS). Innovative PSS improves patient outcomes and benefits doctors, hospitals, and the overall productivity of a nation’s healthcare system. Furthermore, adopting such PSS enhances the cooperation among patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) by creating better access and availability. In addition, the PSS effectively enhances the patients’ recovery process and overall hospital operations, making access to healthcare more convenient and affordable. This paper reports on an ongoing research project in Bangkok, Thailand that assesses the current systems and analyzes how new technologies, products, and services can upgrade existing physical rehabilitation systems and approaches. The researchers used desk research, field research, and in-depth interviews of patients and stakeholders to identify issues in the current system to develop and then test minimum viable products (MVP) and their essential functions to deliver a satisfying and robust end product.