Digital health technologies offer a promising pathway to improve the efficiency of pediatric palliative care (PPC), especially for home-based patients. However, the adoption of these tools often hinges on the **digital health care literacy** of the medical professionals involved. A new cross-sectional study published in 2026 examines how literacy levels directly influence the attitudes and practices of health care personnel (HCP) working in home-based PPC.

The researchers surveyed 148 health care professionals across various specialist and primary services. While phone calls remain the most common communication method at 95.2%, roughly half of the respondents had experience with real-time video consultations. Despite this adoption, a significant hurdle remains. Specifically, over 55% of professionals reported limited or minimal access to electronic health records (EHR) from other health care services. This lack of interoperability highlights a critical barrier to providing seamless, coordinated digital care.

Enhancing Digital Health Care Literacy in Clinical Practice

The study revealed a statistically significant positive association between an individual's **digital health care literacy** and their attitude toward using technology to support patient care. Specifically, higher scores on the Digital Health Care Literacy Scale (DHLS) correlated with more positive views on the Information Technology Attitude Scales for Health (ITASH). This finding suggests that when clinicians feel competent with digital tools, they are more likely to view them as beneficial clinical assets rather than administrative burdens.

Interestingly, most health care personnel do not view technology as a replacement for traditional bedside manners. In fact, over 93% of respondents perceived digital technologies as a supplement to in-person pediatric palliative care. Furthermore, there is a strong consensus on the need for ongoing professional development. Professionals expressed a high demand for training, scoring an average of 3.16 on a 4-point scale regarding the perceived need for educational support.

Transitioning to a more digitally integrated palliative care model requires addressing these literacy gaps directly. By providing targeted training and improving digital infrastructure, such as universal EHR access, health systems can empower clinicians to use remote technologies more effectively. Consequently, this shift can lead to more responsive symptom management and enhanced support for families navigating end-of-life care at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of digital health in pediatric palliative care?

Digital health acts as a supplement to in-person care, facilitating real-time video consultations and remote symptom monitoring. These tools help bridge the gap between hospital-based specialists and home-based patients, improving accessibility and continuity of care.

How does literacy affect technology adoption among clinicians?

Higher digital literacy is strongly associated with more positive attitudes toward technology. When clinicians understand how to use digital tools effectively, they perceive them as helpful supplements that enhance care quality rather than as obstacles to traditional practice.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a professional relationship. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Schröder J et al. Exploring Use of Digital Health Technologies, Digital Health Care Literacy, and Attitudes Toward Digital Health Among Norwegian Health Care Personnel Involved in Home-Based Pediatric Palliative Care: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Form Res. 2026 Feb 26. doi: 10.2196/74928. PMID: 41747277.

Holmen H et al. Home-Based Pediatric Palliative Care and Electronic Health: Systematic Mixed Methods Review. J Med Internet Res. 2020 Feb 28;22(2):e16248. doi: 10.2196/16248.

Hosseinpour M et al. Check the impact of mobile health on medication adherence in adolescents with leukemia. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2025;26(3):751-755. doi: 10.31557/APJCP.2025.26.3.751.

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