Summary of issues and challenges in the use of new technologies in clinical care and with children and adolescents with chronic illness

New technologies such as telehealth and Internet-based interventions provide powerful methods of clinical intervention and research with pediatric populations, especially children with chronic health conditions. Barriers to utilization of these technologies include the experiences and attitudes of professionals and families, ethical concerns about privacy and confidentiality resources, and control. The utilization of new technologies will be promoted by addressing resistance toward and discomfort of new technology, enhancing ways of providing information via technology, and facilitating education efforts within the general population. Recommendations to advance research concerning new technologies include the following: (a) develop benchmarks for evaluations, (b) use quantitative and qualitative approaches, (c) conduct theory-guided research, (d) study the cost benefits of different technologies, (e) document the impact of technologies on comprehensive outcomes, and (f) facilitate multisite research collaboration.