Advances in information technology (IT) enable a fundamental redesign of health care processes based on the use and integration of electronic communication at all levels. New communication technologies can support a transition from institution centric to patient-centric applications. This white paper defines key principles and challenges for designers, policy makers, and evaluators of patient-centered technologies for disease management and prevention. It reviews current and emerging trends, highlights challenges related to design, evaluation, reimbursement and usability, and reaches conclusions for next steps that will advance the domain. © 2008 J Am Med Inform Assoc.