The interplay between health care and technology is revolutionizing the way we approach health services research (HSR) to improve patient care. The increasing relevance of HIT, encompassing innovations such as big data, digital health, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), calls for a nuanced understanding of their development, application, and implications in real-world settings.
On March 27, several esteemed panelists participated in a fireside chat, “Academicians as Entrepreneurs: Intersection between HIT and Innovation.” This transformative journey was the focal point of this fireside chat with founders or trailblazers, presented by its HIT Interest Group, which brought together distinguished academic figures who are also successful entrepreneurs. The panelists began by describing broadly various aspects of their businesses for innovations via HSR and outcomes assessments. These dual roles provided a unique lens into navigating innovation, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges in a rapidly evolving health care landscape.
This was a panel session sponsored by the health information technologies (HIT) Interest Group, AcademyHealth (AH), the American Statistical Association (ASA), an organizational affiliate to AH, and AI4Purpose.
Bridging Academia and Commercialization
A central theme that the panel discussion revolved around translating academic research into commercialized health technologies. The panelists highlighted the critical role that academic institutions play as hubs of innovation. Universities are often the birthplace of groundbreaking research, where cutting-edge solutions to health care challenges are conceptualized. However, moving from theoretical research to practical implementation is no small feat. The speakers shared personal anecdotes of their entrepreneurial journeys, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and strategic planning.
Businesses that handle all aspects of HIT often span digital health solutions, big data analytics, and AI/ML applications, addressing diverse health care challenges such as patient care management and data security. Key to this process is understanding market dynamics. Academics transitioning into the startup ecosystem must grapple with questions of scalability, user adoption, and competition. For instance, transforming an AI algorithm developed in the laboratory into a commercial product demands more than technical prowess, which requires a deep understanding of business models, stakeholder needs, and regulatory landscapes. The panelists underscored the value of mentorship, interdisciplinary partnerships, and iterative feedback to refine and realize the potential of their innovations.
For example, traits like adaptability, visionary thinking, and collaborative leadership, enabling them to bridge academic innovation and entrepreneurial ventures effectively. These characteristics are critical in thriving within both sectors.
Infusing Entrepreneurial Thinking into Academic Curricula
The integration of entrepreneurial thinking into academic curricula emerged as another vital discussion point. As the future of HIT depends on the next generation of health services professionals, equipping students with entrepreneurial skills is essential. The panelists advocated for a paradigm shift in traditional academic frameworks, suggesting that curricula incorporate elements such as business acumen, intellectual property management, and funding strategies.
Real-world data (RWD) applications, ranging from pilot studies to commercialization, were shared as compelling evidence of the impact of interdisciplinary learning. Panelists described how their students had successfully launched startups based on research projects, leveraging knowledge from fields as diverse as engineering, computer science, and public health. By fostering a culture of innovation, universities not only prepare students for diverse career paths but also contribute directly to the advancement of health care technologies.
Various areas can be explored, including Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) frameworks in HSR, as well as evidence generation to align HIT applications with health services research, ensuring data-driven insights improve health care outcomes.
The complexities of transitioning between academia and industry can be mindboggling, including adapting to differing cultures and operational priorities. However, perseverance and strategic alignment have been key to overcoming these challenges. Stan illustrated how HITLAB helped develop ways for pilot testing of digital health solutions, including the latest one in the Alzheimer’s disease space.
Encouraging Interdisciplinary Collaborations
The panel also emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations in driving innovation. Health care challenges are multifaceted, and their solutions require the expertise of diverse disciplines. The panelists illustrated this through examples of successful partnerships between clinicians, data scientists, engineers, and policymakers. These collaborations enable a holistic approach to problem-solving, where technology is seamlessly integrated into clinical workflows and policy decisions.
One notable case study involved the development of a digital health platform for chronic disease management. The project brought together software developers, health care providers, and patient advocates to create a user-centric solution that improved patient outcomes while reducing health care costs. Such initiatives exemplify the transformative potential of interdisciplinary teamwork in HIT.
It is important to take critical steps in translating academic research to products, such as securing funding, protecting intellectual property, engaging stakeholders, and testing scalability in practice. Researchers may also foster interdisciplinary collaboration through experiential learning, industry partnerships, and team-based projects that blend entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial thinking within academic curricula. There are also ways to balance efforts between these sectors, such as effective time management, delegation, and aligning objectives that benefit both academic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Navigating Complex Policy and Regulation
Given the sensitive nature of health data, compliance with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is paramount. The panel provided an update on recent developments in HIPAA and their implications for HIT entrepreneurs. While regulatory compliance can pose challenges, it also serves as a critical safeguard for patient privacy and data security.
The panelists shared strategies for navigating the complexities of regulatory frameworks, from engaging legal experts early in the development process to building robust data governance protocols. They highlighted the need for entrepreneurs to balance innovation with accountability, ensuring that their technologies uphold ethical standards and trust.
The complexities HIPAA poses can be daunting, particularly in data privacy and compliance, while balancing innovation. Implementing robust protocols and legal expertise is vital for success in HIT within the U.S.
Fostering Next Generation of Talents
One of the key takeaways from the panel session was the importance of inspiring and equipping the next generation of health services professionals to drive innovation in HIT. Entrepreneurial journeys were illustrated, including funding strategies and balancing acts across teaching, research, and business.
The panelists shared actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs via the following actions:
- Identify unmet needs, leveraging existing networks
- Stay attuned to emerging trends
- Manage multiple roles
- Optimize time management via delegation and self-care
- Manage diverse stakeholders
- Scale up operations
Impacting Patient Care and Health Care Delivery
The tangible impact of HIT innovations on patient care and health care delivery was emphasized. From AI-powered diagnostic tools to digital health platforms that enhance care coordination, the technologies discussed have the potential to transform the health care landscape. The panelists underscored that successful ventures go beyond financial returns—they create meaningful change by improving health outcomes, empowering patients, and optimizing resource utilization.
Global perspectives on HIT innovations addressed how differing regulations, cultural contexts, and health care systems influence development and implementation internationally. The growing prevalence of AI graduates entering private industry can be an opportunity for the next-generation talents. To match this shift, academic infrastructure must evolve, e.g., from integrating advanced AI training to fostering industry partnerships. He also recommended learning through lessons, not just successful use cases.
Overall, this panel session was a testament to the dynamic intersection of academia and entrepreneurship in HIT. By exploring themes such as research commercialization, curricular innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and regulatory compliance, the session provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges in this field. The panelists’ vast academic and industry experiences and insights will serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for current and future health services professionals. As the HIT landscape continues to evolve, the insights shared through this session may help shape the future trajectory of health care technologies, given the importance of HSR.