The way forward - Challenges and benefits of IoT healthcare devices for children

Important results from the project

The project met all goals and is now in clinical use. A new digital platform streamlines CF care with real-time health data sharing. Home weight and height measurements align with hospital data, but home spirometry is less reliable individually. Doctors’ visual lung function assessments are replaced by real-time estimates in the national CF registry. Digital meetings boosted parental attendance. Smartwatches are safe for pediatric care.

Expected long term effects

The project is expected to have long-term effects by increasing understanding of how self-generated health data and IoT can monitor disease progression, improve care flow efficiency, and promote more equitable healthcare. It supports the adoption of digital solutions in the public sector and provides tools for healthcare providers, patients, and decision-makers to enable better insight, planning, and personalized care over time.

Approach and implementation

The project consisted of five sub-studies, led by the Gothenburg CF Center in collaboration with the CF centers in Lund and Uppsala, along with several private partners. Most sub-projects were conducted as clinical studies, based on clear project plans developed in collaboration with statisticians. The lead investigators were active both clinically and in the project, ensuring practical relevance and continuity.