The Invisible War
Information design advocacy poster on ER triage invisibility for autoimmune patients — research-to-visual translation for GBDA coursework at University of Waterloo.
Client
University Project (GBDA)
Timeline
2024
Services
Role
Visual Researcher & Designer
Mission
Emergency department triage systems are designed to prioritize patients based on visible and measurable symptoms, often leaving patients with invisible illnesses like autoimmune flares at a critical disadvantage. The goal of this project was to visually synthesize the research and gaps in current triage protocols to advocate for better digital intake tools.
My Contributions
I conducted a comprehensive research study into ER triage delays in Ontario and designed a high-impact informational poster. I translated complex healthcare data and stakeholder insights into a clear, aesthetic visual narrative that highlights the 'Invisible War' fought by autoimmune patients.
Impact
The project was highly appreciated for its aesthetic execution and clear communication of a systemic healthcare gap. It serves as a strong case study for how design can be used for advocacy and service improvement.
The Initial Concept
ER triage systems prioritize visible symptoms. My research involved identifying where these systems fail autoimmune patients, who often appear 'fine' while experiencing a crisis. This poster maps out that disconnect.
Physical Application
I identified the two core stakeholders: the Patients and the ER Nurses. Both are under pressure; the nurses by rigid protocols and the patients by a lack of tools to communicate their internal state. The design bridges this empathy gap.
The Final Poster
The final information design piece synthesizes complex healthcare data into a high-impact visual narrative. It uses a clear typographic hierarchy and bold imagery to command attention and drive advocacy.
