J Korean Med Assoc.  2025 Apr;68(4):235-239. 10.5124/jkma.25.0033.

Current trends and future perspectives on digital therapeutics

• Lee D
• Kim YJ

• KMID: 2568120
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.25.0033

Abstract

Purpose
This review explores the current status and future potential of digital therapeutics (DTx), emphasizing their role in clinical practice. It focuses on clarifying their classification, clinical applications, regulatory challenges, and prospective developments in the field.
Current Concepts
Digital therapeutics are evidence-based interventions delivered via software to prevent, manage, and treat medical conditions. Unlike traditional pharmacotherapy, DTx products can be updated and modified, offering greater flexibility in treatment delivery. They are categorized into behavior-modification, physiological-modulation, and disease-management types, and are primarily applied to chronic conditions and neuropsychological disorders. Global regulatory frameworks are rapidly evolving to accommodate this burgeoning field.
Discussion and Conclusion
Digital therapeutics offer significant advantages over traditional pharmacotherapy, such as lower development costs, personalized treatment options, and improved accessibility. These innovations have the potential to transform healthcare by complementing existing therapies and enabling data-driven, individualized care. However, several key challenges must be addressed for widespread adoption. Patient adherence remains inconsistent, particularly in longterm treatments, which can limit clinical effectiveness. In addition, underdeveloped reimbursement policies create economic uncertainty, and ongoing concerns regarding data security and privacy pose persistent risks. As technology advances, digital therapeutics are poised to enhance clinical outcomes, expand access to care, and transform traditional healthcare models, ultimately driving innovation in modern medicine.

Keyword

Computer-Assisted Therapy; Precision medicine; Government Regulation; Chronic disease; Organizational Innovation; 컴퓨터 기반 치료; 정밀 의료; 정부 규제; 만성 질환; 조직 혁신