The Average Patient Doesn't Exist

Healthcare systems are often designed around the needs of an "average" patient, yet real populations are far more diverse. Differences in age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, geography, disability, language, and lived experience can all influence how people access care, engage with services, and experience health outcomes. As healthcare organizations increasingly focus on population health, digital transformation, and AI-enabled care, there is growing recognition that one-size-fits-all approaches can unintentionally widen existing disparities.

At the same time, health systems are under pressure to improve access, reduce inequalities, and deliver more personalized and inclusive care. New approaches are emerging across workforce strategy, service design, community partnerships, data analytics, and digital health, but questions remain around what is actually driving meaningful change and how success should be measured.

This roundtable brings together healthcare leaders to explore how organizations are embedding equity into the design of healthcare services rather than treating it as a separate initiative. The discussion will focus on practical strategies for improving access, engagement, and outcomes across diverse populations.

Join us to discuss:

• How can healthcare organizations design services around the needs of diverse populations rather than an "average" patient?
• What role do data, technology, and community partnerships play in identifying and addressing disparities?
• How are health systems embedding equity into care delivery, workforce strategy, and organizational decision-making?
• What does meaningful progress look like, and how should it be measured?