Could health learn from design?

Abstract

Could health learn from design? For most of the target group and the contributors to the first issue of the journal Design for Health, the answer is clear: Yes it can! Even though there is a growing interest in the qualities of design as a way of adding value to health, it is generally still neglected in the scientific disciplines. So, it is about time that a journal on design for health comes into existence. But instead of preaching to the choir, Design for Health should reach out to those who are unfamiliar with the field of design and health. An ambitious task lies ahead for Design for Health: to reach out to the whole of the target group of design and health scholars in what design could mean for health. Let's start with adopting the new concept of health, namely ‘the ability to adapt and self manage in the face of social, physical, and emotional challenges.’ And to strive towards open, fair and inclusive design for health.