[Adherence and new technologies: a new look at an old problem]

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Digital Health
• Health Communication

Background:

• Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are increasingly vital in modern medicine.
• The integration of ICTs aims to improve treatment effectiveness and patient safety.
• However, disparities in patient digital literacy can hinder the equitable adoption of these advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intersection of ICTs, treatment outcomes, and patient accessibility in healthcare.
• To highlight the importance of patient digital literacy for realizing the full potential of new medical technologies.
• To underscore the need for strategies addressing the digital divide in healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on ICT implementation in clinical settings.
• Analysis of patient engagement data concerning digital health tools.
• Qualitative assessment of barriers to technology adoption among diverse patient populations.

Main Results:

• ICTs demonstrate significant potential for enhancing medical treatments and patient safety.
• A critical finding is the dependency of patient benefit on their ability to effectively use these technologies.
• Patient digital literacy emerges as a key determinant of successful technology integration.

Conclusions:

• While new information and communication techniques offer promise in medicine, their effectiveness is contingent upon patient mastery.
• Addressing the digital literacy gap is essential for ensuring equitable access to and benefit from advancements in digital health.
• Future research should focus on developing patient-centered digital health literacy programs.