The usability of medical instrumentation is critically important

I want to second those here who've pointed out that the usability of medical instrumentation is critically important.  There is a strong "safe and effective" argument for improving the usability of these gadgets, whether they are in the hands of professionals or consumers.  I've had experience evaluating home health care systems.  Even mild vision, dexterity, or hearing impairments (all are common in this market segment) can seriously degrade the experience and jeopardize the user's health care.  How can you get an accurate blood pressure reading when the device itself raises your blood pressure!  And a bad experience reduces treatment program compliance -- no one wants to use a frustrating gadget. The largest factor in growing in home health care may be usability.  How can we lose, when our "competitor" is an inconvenient trip to a boring doctor's office waiting room?  We should be able to create experiences that are entertaining and convenient enough to lure millions away from uncomfortable furniture and out-of-date magazines.