In Physics, you have to know your assumptions.
For example, the Einstein assumed the speed of light was constant, he was able to develop the Special Theory of Relativity, and eventually the General Theory of Relativity.
Over the last 100 years, both in Astrophysics and Quantum Physics, many other theories using this assumption have been made, resulting in thousands of experimental results which have suggested the models based on this assumption better show what is happening in our universe.
This strongly suggests that, at least for the tests and observations we have made so far, the speed of light is constant in our universe, however, it does not definitely prove it.
Physicists never lose sight of this, so if one day they observe something which they don’t expect form their assumption, they are willing (in principle) to rethink them.
The point is, in physics, everyone understands that an assumption is not the same as an immutable fact.
I believe within the context of Healthcare and newer digital technologies we need to continually clarify this difference.
Consider these assumptions:
- Efficiency is good.
- Patients like convenience.
- More access is better.
- Improved communication is good.
- Teamwork is good.
- Longer wait times are bad.
- More connectivity is better.
Often I hear this said as facts, as if they are coming down from the mountain top of Mount Sinai.
They are not.
Efficiency is not good, if it comes at the expense of quality of care.
Patient don’t like convenience, if it means they feel they are treated as an object.
More access is not better, if it results in more false positives, which need further work up, ….
When thinking about technology and its benefits in Healthcare, be very clear on your assumptions. Beat on them. Challenge them. Think of counter examples.
Then proceed, but with caution and an open mind to challenge them again if you are getting unexpected results.