Healthcare Gamification Market Size, Trends and Growth Analysis by 2027

The global market for healthcare gamification is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated US$35,982.7 million by 2027, up from US$3,072.5 million in 2019. This growth represents a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.2% from 2020 to 2027.

Several factors contribute to this expansion, including the increasing integration of gamification techniques in healthcare and a surge in technological innovations. However, challenges related to maintaining long-term user engagement may pose obstacles to market growth.

Gamification refers to the application of game design elements, mechanics, and styles to address challenges, engage users, and enhance the enjoyment of tasks. In the healthcare sector, gamification is utilized in various applications, including those focused on disease prevention, self-management, medical education simulations, medication adherence, and telehealth initiatives. Its primary function in healthcare is to facilitate behavioral changes by motivating individuals to improve their health through game-like activities that offer rewards.

Gamified solutions, including applications, therapies, and devices, are increasingly being integrated into diverse areas of healthcare, making the process of behavior modification both enjoyable and accessible. A significant portion of the global population struggles with the motivation to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Gamification addresses this issue by providing users with insights into their physiological data, presenting challenges, and offering rewards to foster community engagement.

Numerous companies are entering the healthcare market with innovative games aimed at transforming the patient-physician dynamic. For example, in January 2020, Onyx Health launched a digital platform designed to address the digital skill gaps within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Additionally, in October 2020, TrialCard Incorporated released version 2.0 of its Mango Health mobile platform, which supports medication and condition management and integrates patient support programs for the launch of a new oral oncolytic treatment. Furthermore, in June 2016, Nike introduced a mental training app called Pro Genius, aimed at helping soccer players enhance their mental game. Such ongoing product launches by industry players are anticipated to drive the growth of the healthcare gamification market throughout the forecast period.

The healthcare gamification market is categorized by game type into casual games, serious games, and exercise games. In 2019, casual games held the largest market share, largely due to their popularity among children and older adults over 50, who benefit from improved cognitive skills. This growing demand has prompted companies to develop a wider array of engaging casual games. However, exercise games are expected to experience faster growth in the coming years, as they encompass fitness and interactive physical motion games. Many healthcare providers are partnering with exercise applications to promote healthy habits among users. For instance, United Healthcare collaborated with the creators of 'Dance, Dance Revolution' on a pilot program designed to encourage physical activity among children.

The emergence of health crises such as SARS, H1N1, and particularly the COVID-19 pandemic has complicated the healthcare landscape. The unique transmission characteristics of COVID-19 have led to the development of new applications aimed at educating the public and addressing the pandemic's challenges. The pandemic has also hindered healthcare professionals' ability to conduct in-person sales and attend medical conferences, resulting in a notable increase in the use of gamification applications on mobile devices and laptops during this period.

Key secondary sources utilized in the preparation of this report include the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Union (EU), South Korea's National Enterprise for Clinical Trials (KoNECT), the International Trade Administration (ITA), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).