Approaches from idea to implementation of eHealth innovations in healthcare: Experiences and perspectives from an eHealth innovation seeking to support behavior change after weight loss

Aim: To explore innovation, improvement and implementation possibilities of an eHealth intervention aiming to support behavior change for adults with obesity to prevent weight regain after weight loss.
Method: Innovation and improvement possibilities for existing health care delivery in support of weight loss maintenance was explored through service design workshops with stakeholders (e.g., end-user representatives and health care providers). A service blueprint was created, and technology transfer processes explored, aiming to identify ways to implement eHealth innovations, such as to prevent weight gain after weight loss, in healthcare.
Results: Potential for improvement and innovation, such as integration of the technology into existing healthcare services (e.g., patient journey) for self-management and behavior change support, use of a virtual coach, and digital hub(s) across service levels, were identified. Explorations revealed a need for new delivery approaches and models, encouraging public-private collaborations to facilitate implementation of research-based innovations from idea to marked.
Conclusion: The importance of early and ongoing focus on implementation and interdisciplinary stakeholder collaboration when developing new eHealth interventions seeking to be incorporated into healthcare can not be underestimated.