Novas tecnologias da informação em pneumologia*

The authors make a brief introduction on the evolution of the use of the new technologies of information in the Medicine, particularly in the area of the respiratory diseases. Some concepts of Telemedicine are mentioned, as Telehealth and Telecare, its advantages, disadvantages and limitations. They refer some of its practical applications as well, in the area of the respiratory illnesses, namely in the monitorizing of chronic respiratory diseases, as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Cystic Fibrosis and in the diagnosis of Sleep Apnoea. Syndrome Finally, we present our experience in a program of telephone attendance of chronic insufficient respiratory patients and in a program still going on of home monitorizing patients with chronic respiratory failure, by means of a Doc@Home device via a website. This device makes possible the monitorizing of the ECG, heart rate, arterial blood oxygen saturation, as well as clinical parameters, quality of life and compliance with treatment.