What are the best practices for creating an immersive AR experience for healthcare storytelling?

In my experience, it is better to first validate your hypothesis for the product you plan for build, on how exactly it is going to help achieve the goal. Better you first build UX prototypes for XR, that would not need big development, and get that concepts validated from users, and then choose the platform based on what features we need, what devices user would supposed to use choose. IMO, choosing platform is not a one time thing, we may need to choose other tools or may change the even platforms itself. so keep the architecture evolutionary. So it is better to focus on the usecase than that of the platform.

To determine the right platform for your AR project, first understand your audience, their pain points, and their comfort with AR technology. Once you establish that AR adds value to their challenges, evaluate whether to use web, app, or headset-based AR. The approach depends greatly on the type of story you want to tell. If you're spreading a brand message and raising awareness about a specific medical condition, then social AR might be the best choice. If you aim to tell an emotional story that involves personal engagement, then a head-mounted display in a controlled space like a trade show or doctor's office would be more suitable. Don't start with the platform; start with the 'why' and let that guide your technology choice.

Selecting the right platform is crucial for healthcare storytelling in AR. I recommend leveraging platforms like ARKit and ARCore for mobile devices due to their wide accessibility. These platforms provide a foundation for delivering immersive healthcare narratives, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of devices.

The ability of AR applications to work across different platforms and devices, particularly mobile, is an important factor in increasing reach and frequency of use even at the expense of immersion, which only headsets can offer. Mobile devices are ubiquitous and offer unique opportunities for real-time health monitoring and personalised interventions. AR applications must be designed to work seamlessly across these devices, effectively utilising features such as cameras or motion sensors to provide a high-quality user experience. This will ensure broad accessibility and flexibility in different healthcare settings, from the clinic to the patient's home.

The one thing that I have noticed is most of the healthcare professionals are not into tech or do not want to waste their time on learning a piece of software. Keep the instructions minimum and the app more intuitive. Look into how a person with no prior experience with your software tries to use it. Design upon natural instincts that humans have.

Designing with accessibility in mind is paramount for healthcare AR experiences. Ensure that content is easily perceivable and operable. Utilize high contrast, clear fonts, and consider voice narration options. I've seen positive outcomes by incorporating features like voice commands and adjustable text sizes to enhance accessibility for diverse user needs.

Considering human anatomy is important, and XR must consider Field Of View (FOV), Field of Recard (FOR), IPD, ability and disability, else it can lead to physically and mentally stressing experience.

Incorporating interactive elements enhances user engagement in healthcare storytelling. Consider implementing touch gestures, 3D models, or AR animations to allow users to actively explore medical scenarios. In my experience, interactive elements not only convey information effectively but also create a more memorable and engaging storytelling experience.

User testing of AR applications in healthcare should always include both qualitative and quantitative methods. Face-to-face interviews provide real-time feedback, helping to understand the user experience and identify potential problems. Field testing allows for observation of application use in natural environments, assessing usability for specific populations. Content analysis and usability testing provide insights into usability, user interface and functionality. Storytelling interventions can be modelled prior to real-world testing to develop effective messages. Gamified health apps can be tested through user engagement metrics and feedback, making learning more engaging and effective.

Continuous testing and iteration are essential for refining healthcare AR narratives. Regularly gather feedback from healthcare professionals and end-users to identify areas for improvement. Through iterative testing, I've been able to enhance content clarity, adjust interactive features, and optimize overall user experience for healthcare storytelling.

Things we must consider are: Privacy and security: Given the sensitive nature of healthcare data, prioritize robust privacy and security measures. Implement encryption protocols and adhere to healthcare data protection standards to safeguard user information. Cross-platform compatibility: If possible, design the AR experience to be compatible across various devices and operating systems, providing flexibility for users and healthcare professionals. Collaboration with medical professionals: Involve medical professionals throughout the development process to ensure the accuracy and relevance of healthcare content. Their insights can contribute to a more authentic and informative AR storytelling experience.

Approvals can be challenging, so it's wise to submit early prototypes or creative work to regulatory as soon as possible. This way, you can receive guidance on any necessary creative pivots. Taking this step early will save you significant budget and keep your creative team happy.

Gamification in healthcare uses gaming elements to motivate patients to adopt healthier behaviours and improve outcomes. By incorporating challenges, rewards and interactive storytelling, gamified applications encourage adherence to treatment and wellness regimes. This approach not only increases patient engagement, but also helps healthcare professionals retain critical information. With the potential to make routine tasks fun, gamification encourages a proactive approach to health management, contributing to a more dynamic and patient-centred healthcare landscape.