Weight & Well-Being
A UX research study examining and addressing implicit weight bias in the healthcare system.
Experience Design Intern @ UnitedHealth Group | Individual Professional Project
Understand the presence of implicit weight bias in healthcare and its effect on patient-provider relationships.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Healthcare visits can be a vulnerable experience for many, especially for those who live in larger or smaller bodies. A supportive healthcare provider is essential, however many perpetuate discouraging ideals for patients, rather than providing them with the proper tools and assistance to lead healthy lifestyles.
THE PROLOGUE
THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Designed and conducted an online dScout research survey of over 200 people.
I devised a mixed-method research approach to my research study. I developed an online dScout study for quantitative data, engaging over 200 people, and from there selected 9 people to interview further. The participants were diverse in backgrounds and demographics which allowed me to analyze prevalent trends and patterns of weight-related biases in healthcare experiences.
I gained profound insights into the lived experiences of patients who had faced weight-related biases from their healthcare providers and the effects that it had on their willingness to access healthcare services.
THE RESEARCH
THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Designed, organized, and led 9 in-depth interviews.
THE ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY
Affinity Mapping, Thematic Analysis, Empathy Mapping, Persona Development, Mind Mapping
After conducting the interviews, I was able to identify three major themes that were recurring in people's experiences:
A lack of trust in the healthcare system for providers to adequately address concerns, a severe power imbalance between patients and healthcare providers, and an overarching lack of consent in healthcare experiences when it comes to a patient's willingness to discuss their weight. This results in patients not receiving adequate healthcare services and also contributes to their reluctance to seek these services.
Using each of these themes, I created a framework exploring the causes and effects of weight-related biases that was used to inform future projects at the company.
THE INSIGHTS
After identifying that consent surrounding discussions of weight is the way to create more positive healthcare experiences, I developed targeted self-advocacy recommendations that could be applied in healthcare offices.
From touchpoints throughout a healthcare experience asking for consent to a language guide for patients on how to advocate for themselves with their providers, I discovered through my research that the most effective way to correct a power imbalance, instill trust in relationships, and facilitate consensual healthcare experiences, is to support patients through the process of advocating for themselves.
THE SOLUTIONS
THE IDEATION METHODOLOGY
Thumbnail Sketching, Concept Postering
My research insights inspired & informed a company-wide initiative to invest into improving women's healthcare experiences.
THE OUTCOME
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Executed mixed-methods research and facilitated sessions including interviews and survey studies, while recording responses.
User Research
Analyzed qualitative and quantitative data to uncover themes and patterns among interviewees to create a holistic view of patient health experiences.
Data Analysis
Data Communication
Summarized and communicated research findings and insights through framework building and ideation.
TOOLS
dScout, Miro, NVivo, Illustrator, Otter.ai
TIMELINE
8 weeks