Medical devices at home

New technologies follow a predictable pattern of democratization over time. Specifically, a product that begins as merely useful over time often evolves into one that is usable, providing easy access to all functionality. If the technology survives the usability transition it must become desirable. In this stage it is important that the product evokes positive emotion from its users.This transition is occurring quickly before our eyes in healthcare as medical diagnostic and treatment devices are taken out of the hands of specialized healthcare providers and placed into the hands, and homes, of patients. These useful devices now need to become usable and desirable. This panel discusses the human capabilities, limitations, emotions and motivations that will determine whether this transition is a success.