Philips
GoCal: Life-changing journey and build a healthy habit to take care of your heart
How might we improve cardiovascular health and address health inequalities?
CVD is the leading cause of death globally (World Health Organisation). Over three quarters of CVD deaths take place in low- and middle-income countries. It is also one of the conditions most strongly associated with health inequalities, with people living in England’s most deprived areas being almost four times more likely to die prematurely of CVD than those in the least deprived area (Public Health England 2019). Without further intervention, 17.9 million people per year will continue to die if it is not detected and prevented as early as possible.
Project Scope:
UX/UI Design
Product Design
Design Systems
Brand Design
GoCal is an app and device which uses algorithms to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease, monitor heart health for early detection and prevention, home care, and adaption of healthy living. It aims to mitigate the risk of CVD and improve cardiovascular health for a better heart health and long-term impact.
The ECG chip device is connected to smartphone and the GoCal app to perform ECG self-check. The device picks up electrical voltage signals from the user's heart via skin electrodes. The analog signals are amplified and digitised then processed by a microcontroller (through embedded software) before being sent via bluetooth to the smart phone and then to the app. The software algorithms in the app allow key measurement to be taken (e.g. BPM and the types of heart rythm can be diagnosed).
Initial development would be enabled by a combination of internal investment and public sector funding grant. GoCal could partner with NHS and the UK Government to deploy the first ECG chip devices to patients. Later, as costs fall, the device and app would be marketed to consumers as a lifestyle choice. ECG chip’s battery lasts for upto 2.5 years of actual use. Users can order new ECG chips, request replacement or request for a change of battery.
For long term user commitment and engagement with the app, GoCal will send them reminders and notifications to keep them updated and on track with their cardiovascular health records.