Case Study
Enhancing the Patient Journey for Minimally Invasive Weight-loss Procedures Through UX Research
overview
Agile Research That Shaped Bariatric Procedure Engagement Tools
A global medical device company sought to improve how it engages with potential patients exploring less-invasive weight-loss treatments. Focused on advancing solutions in bariatrics—the medical specialty dedicated to managing and treating obesity—the company aimed to offer a safer, more accessible alternative to traditional surgical procedures.
With consumer skepticism regarding safety, costs, and long-term outcomes, the company identified an opportunity to enhance its digital presence. Specifically, the team explored how an interactive online quiz and personalized experience could educate, build trust, and encourage patients to take the next step in their treatment journey.
Before bringing these tools to market, the company needed to validate the concept and fine-tune the user experience. Understanding consumer expectations, potential barriers, and engagement drivers was critical to creating a resonating digital experience.
THE PROBLEM
Uncovering Motivators and Barriers in the Digital Bariatrics Space
Despite offering a promising non-surgical weight-loss solution, the company faced several challenges:
- Many site visitors were unfamiliar with this specific type of minimally invasive weight-loss procedures and skeptical of procedural safety, cost, and outcomes.
- The proposed quiz and results tool needed validation: Would users find it helpful? Would it build trust? What questions would feel intrusive?
- There was also a need to fine-tune language, visual design, and contact information requests to reduce friction.
Ultimately, the company needed to ensure the online experience felt trustworthy, relevant, and motivational to those seeking weight-loss support.
OUR APPROACH
In-Depth Interviews to Optimize User Experience
To address these challenges, we conducted qualitative research through in-depth interviews with prospective patients. Our research approach focused on:
- Exploring attitudes and awareness of minimally invasive weight-loss procedures and other bariatric procedures.
- Testing two homepage and results page prototypes (Version A and Version B) to gauge which design elements most effectively supported understanding and next-step motivation.
- Evaluating the clarity and comfort level of quiz questions (e.g., weight, age, contact info).
- Identifying what kinds of content—such as videos, testimonials, or Q&A—build the most trust and credibility.
- Uncovering expectations around personalization and the need for more decision-making support, especially when comparing to other bariatric procedures.
The result
More Engaging, Trust-Building Digital Experiences
Research insights provided the client team with clear UX recommendations to increase engagement and move users toward a consultative next step:
- Stronger Engagement: Both homepage and quiz experiences successfully captured interest, especially with a short time commitment (2 minutes) and a promise of personalized results.
- Refined Content Strategy: Including authentic testimonials, a short explainer video, and detailed procedure Q&As built confidence in their procedure being a viable option.
Optimized UX Design: Feedback that informed a clear path forward with improved flow, recommendations for refinement and additional features necessary to build trust and drive action. These findings are now informing the design and rollout of a more tailored and motivating digital journey—bringing our client’s procedure to the forefront for prospective patients seeking trustworthy and effective weight-loss options.
proven experience
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