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Bernardo Perez-Villa, MD, MSc (right) with D. Geoffry Vince, PhD (left), Chief, Cleveland Clinic Innovations
Cleveland Clinic Innovations continues to empower innovators with tools to transform ideas into impactful solutions. One of its most promising initiatives is the Becoming an Inventor course, a CME-accredited, self-paced program designed to introduce Cleveland Clinic caregivers to the fundamentals of healthcare innovation. Bernardo Perez-Villa, MD, MSc, Senior Engagement Partner, is at the helm of this effort, whose passion for education and structured innovation inspired the course’s creation.
From Idea to Impact: A Structured Pathway for Innovators
A lifelong commitment to learning and teaching has shaped Dr. Perez-Villa’s journey from clinical practice to innovation strategy. “We didn’t have structured training in healthcare innovation during med school,” he explained. “We asked clinicians to bring ideas forward, but many didn’t know how to begin. This course fills that gap.”
The program guides participants through the innovation lifecycle, from identifying unmet clinical needs to crafting value propositions and understanding intellectual property, regulatory pathways, and reimbursement strategies. “An idea is abstract,” said Perez-Villa. “An invention is something you can touch and test, a proof of concept. Innovation is when that invention scales and delivers real-world impact.”
The Value Proposition: A North Star for Innovation
One of the course's most distinctive strengths is its focus on developing and refining a clear value proposition. Dr. Perez-Villa describes it as the guiding force behind any successful innovation effort, a tool that not only communicates the essence of an idea but also aligns teams, informs decision-making, and adapts to changing market conditions.
“If you can’t explain your idea in less than 90 seconds, you’ll lose your audience,” he said. “But the value proposition isn’t just a pitch, it’s your North Star. It guides your team, helps you measure progress, and keeps you aligned when the market shifts.”
He encourages participants to revisit their value proposition regularly. “Markets change. Results evolve. Your value proposition should too.”
Building a Culture of Innovation
Early feedback has been positive, with participants recommending the course to colleagues. “It’s encouraging,” said Perez-Villa. “We’re even considering expanding the modules next year.”
He also sees broader potential for the program. “While some modules are healthcare-specific, the core framework, identifying problems, creating solutions, and articulating value, is industry-agnostic. It could be applied in any sector.”
Still, he emphasized that leadership buy-in is essential. “People don’t know what they don’t know. Sometimes, we need structured encouragement to explore innovation. Making this course part of institutional training could unlock incredible potential.”
Defining Success
The course is open to all Cleveland Clinic caregivers. “Innovation is one of our core values,” said Perez-Villa. “I’d love to see this course become part of onboarding for every new employee. Whether you’re a nurse, administrator, or physician, you have the power to identify problems and help solve them.”
For Perez-Villa, success means scale and impact. “By the end of 2026, I’d love to see 150 Cleveland Clinic caregivers complete the course,” he said. “And I’d be thrilled to see an external organization partner with us to license the program.”
Advice for Aspiring Inventors
His advice to those with promising ideas? “Just start. Talk to three to five people who’ve taken an idea to commercialization. Learn from their journeys. If you can find a mentor, that’s golden.”
Perez-Villa credits his own growth to mentorship from Joseph Iannotti, MD, PhD, Chief Research and Academic Officer, Cleveland Clinic Florida Market. “Working with Dr. Iannotti has taught me more than any MBA program could. Real-world experience and guidance are invaluable.”
Are you a Cleveland Clinic caregiver ready to take the next step?
Enroll in Becoming an Inventor today through Cleveland Clinic MyLearning and earn CME credit while learning how to bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re solving a problem in your practice or exploring innovation for the first time, this course is your gateway to making a difference.
Follow the Journey
Follow and stay connected with Bernardo Perez-Villa, MD, MSc, and Cleveland Clinic Innovations as they continue to shape the future of healthcare innovation.
