Applying Design Thinking for Co-Designed Health Solutions: A Case Study on Chronic Kidney Disease in Regional Australia

Anita Stefoska-Needham (), Jessica Nealon, Karen Charlton, Karen Fildes and Kelly Lambert
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Anita Stefoska-Needham: School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
Jessica Nealon: School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
Karen Charlton: School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
Karen Fildes: School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
Kelly Lambert: School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 10, 1-16

Abstract: (1) Background: This paper outlines key issues to consider when implementing Design Thinking methodology in health-based qualitative research to achieve a meaningful outcome. The purpose is to share our learnings with others. (2) Methods: Using the case study of an Australian region with high rates of chronic kidney disease, we describe a design-led methodological approach (co-design) that ensures end users remain central to research for the lifespan of the project; from conception of the research question and protocol design, through to solution generation and change implementation. (3) Results: Representation of the four Design Voices—people with lived experience, expertise, intent, and design knowledge—was imperative to minimise bias towards researchers as the main drivers of the project. A commitment to the five core elements of design thinking (empathising, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing) was maintained throughout the research. Empathising through direct interaction with users was crucial to creating a meaningful understanding of their problems and challenges. Ideation ensured user-centred solution generation, with solutions aligned with addressing the ‘real’ problem and creating an improved future state. (4) Conclusions: Incorporation of Design Thinking principles in health research is a valuable adjunct to traditional qualitative methodologies, with the potential to facilitate meaningful outcomes for people in our community experiencing a wicked health problem.

Keywords: design-led thinking; codesign; consumer; chronic kidney disease; qualitative research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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