More than 800 visitors attended the Long Night of Research at the MCI Campus Technology & Life Sciences on 24 April and enjoyed an evening that brought science to life. Interactive hands-on stations, talks and direct insights into ongoing research projects invited people of all ages to explore, ask questions and try things out for themselves. One of the many highlights: a healthcare decision game by the Center for Social & Health Innovation (CSHI), which focused on one of the most pressing social issues: how we want to shape our healthcare system today and in the future.
With ten coins, five decision-making stations and a case study, the decision-making game placed participants in a situation that could easily arise in everyday life. Where do we go when we feel unwell, how long are we willing to wait for treatment, and what does our choice mean for others? The game made it clear that the healthcare system is not a neutral space, but that our personal decisions and decisions within the system have an impact.
The aim was not to prescribe the ‘right’ behavior. Rather, it was to foster an understanding that resources are limited, that decisions have consequences, and that the system that supports us can also be shaped.
At the end, a contextual section provided some perspective: those who had four coins left were in line with the Austrian average for expenditure on outpatient and emergency care. But the really important question only began there: what can and should a healthcare system deliver, and how do we ensure that it continues to do so for everyone in the future?
At the same time, the decision game highlighted where smart investments can make a difference: prevention programmes that stop illnesses before they arise not only save money – every euro invested in prevention is estimated to save three to five euros in treatment costs. A well-developed primary care system with enough GP practices takes the pressure off expensive A&E departments and ensures that people receive support earlier and with lower barriers to access. And targeted patient guidance – for example via the 1450 health helpline – can help ensure that people access the right services at the right time.
The Healthcare Decision Game is based on the ongoing research project “Willingness-to-Pay: Assessing willingness to pay for outpatient services in Tyrol” at the CSHI, which addresses a question of both political and social significance: How much are people in Tyrol willing to pay for outpatient and emergency medical services in hospitals? And what influences this decision?
To this end, the study employs a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) – a survey in which respondents are presented with realistic decision-making scenarios from everyday healthcare. They choose between different options that differ, for example, in terms of waiting time, accessibility, type of provider or fee level. From these preferences, the so-called willingness to pay (WTP) can be derived: Which characteristics are particularly important to people when it comes to outpatient care, and at what point does a price change their behaviour?
The research project aims to establish a scientific foundation for an evidence-based discussion on ways to relieve pressure on the healthcare system, whilst keeping issues of efficiency, equity and accessibility within the Tyrolean healthcare system in mind. At the same time, it aims to provide policy-makers with a comprehensive data set for evaluating measures to reduce waiting times, improve the management of patient flows and ensure the needs-based development of healthcare provision.
More information on the ongoing research project is available here.
Participants taking part in the healthcare decision game ©MCI/Aaron Heimerl
Center for Social & Health Innovation
Social, Health & Public Management | Bachelor
International Health & Social Management | Master
CSHI: Behind the Scenes
Success Stories | Bachelor
Success Stories | Master
Discover the program that suits you.