Riding the Wave of Digital Transformation in Behavioral Medicine

Abstract

Background: Digital technologies provide a platform for accelerating science and broadening impact in behavioral medicine.

Purpose: The objective of this invited keynote presentation or paper is to offer a blueprint for navigating the rapidly changing waters of digital health.

Methods: A strategic literature review on digital health technologies in behavioral medicine was combined with a review of relevant policy initiatives to yield insights on: (a) knowledge building, (b) collaboration, and (c) public health stewardship.

Results: Digital platforms offer unprecedented leverage for accelerating science, facilitating collaboration, and advancing public health. Early successes in behavioral medicine demonstrated how digital platforms could extend the reach of theory-based behavioral therapeutics through increases in efficiency and scale. As medical investments in health information technology increased, the field of behavioral informatics emerged as the collaborative glue binding behavioral theory into a new generation of patient-facing applications, clinical decision support tools, evidence-based communication programs, and population health management strategies. As a leader within the interstitial space between medicine, psychology, and engineering, the Society of Behavioral Medicine is in a distinct position to exert influence on the ways in which our science is utilized to eliminate health disparities; improve support for patients, caregivers, and communities; to promote general health and well-being; and to offer relief when confronted with psychological pain or addiction.

Conclusion: Riding the wave of digital transformation has less to do with mastering the complexities of the latest technologies and more to do with adhering closely to established principles for navigating a rapidly changing information environment.

Keywords: Behavioral informatics; Digital health; Human factors; Internet.