The Dutch health system faces significant challenges, yet health policymakers encounter complex dynamics that can hinder the development of effective policies. This research explores the integration of Human-Centered Design into health policymaking to help policymakers navigate these dynamics and develop more effective, responsive policies. Using a mixed-methods approach—including a literature review, semi-structured interviews, and a co-creation study—this study highlights the potential of Human-Centered Design to support policymakers in overcoming barriers in policymaking. By integrating its principles, health policies can be better aligned with real word needs, reducing the likelihood of costly revisions.
To support the integration of Human-Centered Design in policymaking, this study identifies ten challenges policymakers face when integrating it, based on interviews with policymakers, and proposes five solution areas derived from a co-creation session with policymakers and citizens. To further advance the integration of Human-Centered Design in health policymaking, this study recommends exploring practical tools that can assist policymakers in applying its principles, as well as exploring the role of designers in guiding this integration.