Center for Health Optimization & Implementation Research
Co-Design at CHOIR
What is Co-Design?
Co-design is a participatory research methodology where “end users” (e.g., Veterans, family members, and providers) are engaged as equal partners in the development of products, interventions, or system improvements. With its focus on partnership and equality, co-design is a critical component of building a Veteran-centered healthcare system by ensuring that interventions and healthcare processes address what is most important to Veterans.
In Co-design, Veterans and researchers work together to create a new product or program that benefits Veterans. Researchers contribute academic knowledge and research training. Veterans contribute expertise by experience - as Veterans, VA service users, and members of the community.
What does a Veteran Co-Designer do (and not do)?
A Veteran Co-Designer...- Is a valued member of the research team
- Participates actively in co-design sessions
- Contributes expertise from their unique experiences
- Supports and empowers the groups they represent
- Is not a research or focus group subject
- Does not collect research data
Examples of Co-Design Projects
Veterans and CHOIR research teams have collaborated to develop several co-designed products. Examples include:
- You are the Key: An educational booklet designed to empower Veterans’ participation in shared decision-making for lung cancer screening.
- Your Health Matters: Let’s Talk About How to Stay Safe While Using: A graphic medicine booklet designed to role model patient-centered conversations about drug use and education about how to minimize harms associated with drug use.
- VET Peer CONNECTS: A community event to raise awareness among Black Veterans about lung cancer screening and encourage them to talk with their doctors about getting screened.
If you are interested in learning more about participating in a future co-design project, please contact our Veteran Consultant Network.
