Self-Driven Healthcare

The pervasive use of digital and smartphone technologies has impacted every aspect of our life, including how we may self-care now and in the future. Self-Driven Healthcare (SDH) is an umbrella term introduced by Innovate UK to conceptualize aspects of healthcare delivery that can support people in becoming more engaged in their own health and wellbeing management rather than being passive receivers of healthcare. The defining characteristics of SDH include activities that empower people to self-care using technology, including those activities concerned with primary prevention and health promotion (e.g., detecting diseases earlier and proactively collaborating with a growing range of healthcare professionals to manage their illnesses). The UK is a significant exporter of a world-leading knowledge economy, and the development of SDH presents a key opportunity for the UK to build and grow companies with a large international market share. Keep an eye out for our Self-Driven Healthcare & Society 5.0 Insights Report earmarked for publication on International Self-Care Day (24 July 2023).