Project Summary

The initiative aims to create a digitized community platform to support Sutter Health patients experiencing similar health concerns and promote community engagement. The goal is to build an online peer support system to address the growing isolation faced by patients and to provide a channel for ongoing empowerment and real-world advice exchange. This idea has been tested successfully with the Sutter Metabolic Wellness Program, demonstrating the strong demand for community among patients. With initial evidence showing significant interest (89% of participants asked for such a community platform), the project aims to scale this initiative to support other programs within Sutter Health.

App Features

1. Collaborative Messaging or Community Features:

   • Purpose: To connect patients dealing with similar health issues, providing a platform for them to share experiences, motivate each other, and build a supportive environment.
   • Reasoning: Given the core of this project is about addressing patient isolation and building connections, a digital community space is essential. Features such as discussion forums, chat groups, and peer support mechanisms would create an accessible, inclusive community.
   • Benefit for the Project: A digital community allows patients to share advice, motivate each other, and maintain accountability. This feature can be expanded to incorporate different health conditions and demographic-specific groups, scaling community support effectively across Sutter Health.
   • Benefit for Sutter Health Culture: This aligns well with Sutter Health's mission of "Patients First, People Always," by fostering an environment where patients feel connected and empowered. It reinforces Sutter Health's image as a compassionate and forward-thinking healthcare provider that is committed to supporting patients beyond the walls of the clinic.

2. Patient App:

   • Purpose: To provide a streamlined, user-friendly interface where patients can engage with their community, access resources, and track progress within their health program.
   • Reasoning: A patient-focused mobile app would make it easy for patients to connect anytime and anywhere, enhancing accessibility. Features like push notifications for new community messages or reminders to participate in discussions could help boost engagement.
   • Benefit for the Project: An app would ensure community support is always within reach. It could include features such as progress tracking and integration with wearables, which could increase patient participation in both their health journeys and the community.
   • Benefit for Sutter Health Culture: Introducing such a patient app would enhance Sutter Health's reputation for innovation and patient-centric care. It shows a dedication to leveraging technology for better health outcomes, making Sutter a leader in digital patient engagement.

3. Online Education App:

   • Purpose: To provide educational resources directly to patients, supplementing their community engagement with structured learning materials about health and wellness.
   • Reasoning: By incorporating an educational component, the community can be enriched with actionable insights and expert guidance. Patients would benefit from access to information about their specific conditions and tools to improve their health.
   • Benefit for the Project: Education tools would provide patients with knowledge to make informed decisions, complementing peer support with factual, reliable health information. This would make the app a one-stop solution for both community interaction and educational needs.
   • Benefit for Sutter Health Culture: A digital education feature aligns with Sutter Health’s efforts to empower patients to take an active role in their health. It supports a model where patients are not only recipients of care but are also proactive participants in their own well-being.

App Mix and Benefits

The best solution would be to combine collaborative messaging/community features, a patient-focused app, and an online education component. This integrated approach ensures that patients have the support, knowledge, and convenience they need to navigate their health challenges effectively.

1. Benefits to the Project:

• Supportive Community Engagement: Collaborative features will help patients feel less isolated and more engaged with their peers.
• Accessible Peer Support: A patient app would ensure that peer support is accessible anytime, encouraging regular engagement and providing an avenue for help when needed.
• Informed Health Decisions: Educational features will equip patients with the knowledge they need to make better health choices, enhancing their overall empowerment.

2. Supporting Sutter Health's Culture and Brand:

• Patient-Centric Care: The community and education features reflect Sutter Health’s commitment to caring for patients beyond clinical visits, supporting them holistically in their health journey.
• Innovative Digital Health: By offering a digital platform that combines education, community, and peer support, Sutter Health positions itself at the forefront of digital patient engagement and empowerment, building a brand that prioritizes innovation and the patient experience.