Health IT in Mental Health Care: Supporting Children with Medical Complexity and Their Parents

Abstract

Children with medical complexity (CMC) require ongoing care, presenting unique challenges for family caregivers. These challenges often result in raised stress levels, affecting the mental health of caregivers and the well-being of the children. Health information technology (Health IT) offers opportunities to support caregivers in managing stress and promoting better mental health outcomes. Effective implementation of technologies requires a clear understanding of the mental health challenges and needs involved. This study aims to understand the mental health challenges faced by parents of CMC to design user-centered technologies that support both children and their caregivers. By addressing these challenges through supportive technologies, CMC and their parents could be empowered to more effectively manage their responsibilities and improve their overall quality of life.