Up, Up and Away - the digital health podcast
On Up, Up and Away we speak to thought-leaders and opinion formers in the world of digital health, be that clinicians, patients, young people or other tech innovators. We find out what things are making a real difference.
Our talented team specialise in creating digitally enabled self-management programmes to the NHS for young people. We've spent the past eight years or so developing the Digital Health Passport - an evidence-based mobile app, which improves skills, knowledge and confidence to manage long-term conditions like asthma, epilepsy and sickle cell disease.
Up, Up and Away - the digital health podcast
No More Hiding: How Inhaler Tailor is Helping People Embrace Their Asthma One Case At a Time
In this episode, Dom Burch sits down with Inhaler Tailor founders Will and Harriet Hogge, alongside marketing intern Lauren McClean, to discuss their innovative approach to asthma care, their journey as entrepreneurs, and the impact of their product.
From Idea to Innovation: The Birth of Inhaler Tailor
Will Hogge, originally from a tech background, shares his journey from working at Microsoft and running an elephant sanctuary to launching Inhaler Tailor. The idea was born when he saw his goddaughter struggle with asthma medication adherence. Wanting to make inhalers more appealing, he created a customisable case that turns an essential medical device into something fun and personalised.
Breaking the Stigma Around Inhaler Use
Asthma inhalers are often associated with weakness in popular media, reinforcing a stigma that makes young people reluctant to use them in public. The Inhaler Tailor cases aim to change that by transforming inhalers into accessories that users are proud to carry. Bright, stylish designs—including rubber ducks, unicorns, and even glow-in-the-dark options—help children and adults alike embrace their inhalers rather than hiding them.
The Power of Social Media and Dragon’s Den Exposure
Harriet explains how a TikTok video unexpectedly went viral, garnering over 3 million views in just two weeks. This pivotal moment not only boosted visibility but also caught the attention of Dragon’s Den, leading to a game-changing opportunity for the business. With social media as a core marketing strategy, they’ve seen firsthand how video content resonates with younger audiences, helping normalise inhaler use.
The Bigger Picture: NHS Collaboration and Clinical Trials
While Inhaler Tailor has gained traction with individual customers, Will and Harriet are working toward wider adoption within the UK healthcare system. NHS trusts have already begun placing bulk orders, but navigating the complexities of funding and research remains a challenge. A study with York St John University and York and Scarborough Teaching Hospital is in the works to quantify the impact of their cases on medication adherence. Will and Harriet's early research suggests 76% of users take their inhaler more regularly, and 99% find their inhaler easier to locate.
What’s Next for Inhaler Tailor?
Looking ahead, Inhaler Tailor aims to expand internationally, particularly in the U.S. They’re also focused on securing NHS backing and funding for a full-scale clinical trial to further validate the product’s benefits. They invite NHS professionals and potential collaborators to reach out and help drive this initiative forward.
Find Out More
For more on Inhaler Tailor, visit inhalertailor.com or simply search Inhaler Case online. They’re also available via WhatsApp on their website for direct inquiries.
