Claudia Parsons Memorial Lecture 2026

Designing Better Health: Human Stories Behind Medical Innovation by Dr. Alexandra Lang

When we think about healthcare innovation, we often think about new technologies and medical breakthroughs. But some of the most meaningful improvements start with people and their experiences. In this lecture, Dr Alexandra Lang shares inspiring stories from patients, healthcare professionals, researchers, and communities, showing how their experiences help shape better healthcare services, systems, and technologies. Through real-world examples, she will explore how listening to people and involving them in decision-making can lead to safer, more effective, and more inclusive healthcare.

The lecture highlights the value of participation and co-design, ensuring that diverse voices are heard when developing solutions to health challenges. It will also explore how thoughtful, inclusive design can improve access to care, reduce inequalities, and support wellbeing for everyone.

Combining personal reflections with research insights, Alexandra will discuss how we can create a future where healthcare not only treats illness but also supports people's dignity, quality of life, and overall wellbeing.

About the speaker:
Dr Alexandra Lang is a researcher and educator in the School of Design and Creative Arts at Loughborough University. Her work focuses on improving health, wellbeing, patient safety, and medical technologies by putting people at the heart of research and design. Drawing on approaches such as human-centred design, systems thinking, and participatory research, she works closely with patients, healthcare professionals, communities, and industry partners to understand real-life experiences and challenges.

By listening to and learning from those directly affected by healthcare services and technologies, Alexandra helps develop solutions that are more inclusive, practical, and effective. In this lecture, she shares the people, projects, and experiences that have shaped her career, highlighting the importance of participation, storytelling, and collaboration in creating better health outcomes and lasting improvements in healthcare.

Event Schedule for In person attendees:
12.30pm - Registration and Refreshments
1pm - Lecture and Q&A
2pm - Networking, Canapes and Refreshments