Exploring the key drivers in clinical adoption of digital therapeutics

Digital therapeutics is emerging as a key segment in digital health, attracting substantial investment in recent years. While advancements have been made in clinical validation, regulatory frameworks and reimbursement, the primary challenge now lies in scaling patient access to these therapies.

Clinicians play a crucial role in DTx adoption, influencing both prescription-based and non-prescription use. Research indicates that patient engagement and adherence improve significantly when healthcare providers are involved. However, for widespread clinician adoption, it is essential to understand their key motivations, barriers and requirements.

To explore these factors, primary research was conducted with general practitioners (GPs) and specialists across key European markets including Germany, Belgium, Sweden and the U.K. Here digital health is gaining traction with the help of life science consulting. Read on to learn more about the key drivers of the clinical adoption of digital therapeutics:

Improving patient outcomes and experience

Clinicians are most motivated to recommend digital therapeutics when they see clear benefits in improving patient outcomes and experiences. They recognize the value of behavioral change and self-management in enhancing care and believe DTx can empower patients in this regard. Another key advantage clinicians see in DTx and go-to-market consulting is the ability to generate additional data and insights, offering a more comprehensive view of a patient’s condition and enabling better-informed treatment decisions.

Suggestions for DTx innovators

Since DTx remains a relatively new concept in the medical field, it is crucial to communicate its benefits using familiar terminology, emphasizing behavioral change and self-management. Additionally, clinicians expect strong evidence before adopting new treatments. Beyond demonstrating improved patient outcomes, showcasing how DTx enhances engagement and self-management will be essential in gaining their trust and support.

Refining patient access

With a growing ageing population and increasing demand for healthcare, systems worldwide must adapt. While not a complete solution, digital therapeutics is emerging as a tool to expand access to care. Clinicians recognize its potential to address challenges related to capacity, timing, and location constraints in healthcare delivery.

In the mental health ecosystem, for instance, DTx can help bridge disparities in access across different demographics and regions. This is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas or those facing mobility challenges. Research by ORCHA also highlights those younger individuals and women with children at home appreciate the flexibility and discretion that DTx offers.

Suggestions for DTx innovators

To enhance accessibility and meet patients where they are, integrating DTx with telehealth platforms can be effective.

Increasing provider efficiency and supporting organizational goals

Clinicians and healthcare systems face ongoing time and capacity constraints, making efficiency a key factor in digital therapeutics adoption. Solutions that enhance provider efficiency, such as those with remote monitoring are particularly appealing. By enabling virtual patient reviews, DTx can help care teams prioritize urgent cases while directing others to appropriate resources, optimizing time and healthcare delivery.

Suggestions for DTx innovators

A major barrier to adoption is the added workload associated with DTx, including patient onboarding, data review and handling queries. To gain clinician and hospital support, DTx innovators must provide evidence not only of clinical benefits but also of improvements in provider efficiency and healthcare resource management.

Clinicians recognize DTx as a valuable tool for enhancing patient outcomes, expanding care access and optimizing provider efficiency.