A world of inclusive care

I've always had a soft spot for health and technology, especially digital health. With my background as a nurse and now as a service designer, I find it incredible how technology is changing the way we experience healthcare. Just think about it - having a doctor's appointment from your living room or robotic arms performing surgery while the surgeon is miles away! 

When I saw that this year's eco-Disruptive competition theme was ’inclusive health’ - creating solutions for those with limited access to support their healthcare needs - I knew I had to be a part of it. The amazing eco-D program, now in its fourth year, is about discovering and partnering with innovative start-ups that embrace accessibility, sustainability, and innovation to create real solutions. 

Little did we know, we’d find a game-changing start-up that could help us unlock digital accessibility for so many people. 

A diverse team with a common goal 

Working alongside colleagues from customer experience, employee experience, telehealth, finance, aged care, and digital delivery is a unique opportunity to bring different skills, perspectives and personal stories to the table, united by our passion for inclusive health.

We were thrilled to discover Youngster to develop a solution to pitch as part of the global competition. Their mission aligns perfectly with our goal of making digital health accessible for everyone, including making it easy to connect with loved ones through a simple video call. 

Youngster: Bridging generations 

Youngster connects young people with older adults, helping them navigate technology while building meaningful connections and sharing valuable life skills. This service also supports mature-aged workers and NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) participants. 

The possibilities with them are seemingly endless. Such as giving customers access to a free one-on-one Youngster session at a local Bupa location. During these sessions, Youngsters teach older adults how to use apps, including myBupa or access our telehealth programs, and other digital tools. And at the end of each session, the older participants get to share some life wisdom. 

We’d be empowering those who might feel technologically challenged to manage their healthcare online, combat loneliness by engaging with others in the community and confidently connect with family members virtually. There is still lots of work to do but we all super excited about the possibilities.

Looking ahead 

Our vision is for a world where mental health improves, intergenerational connections flourish, and access to services expands for those who need it most.

Isn’t this the kind of world we all want to be part of? 

A place where we can live longer, healthier, and happier lives — together, inclusively.