In conclusion, there are structural factors, such as time
constraints, that are likely to lead to increasing adoption
of IHCs for counseling applications. Despite current
limitations in technology, IHCs already have demonstrated
efficacy and made important contributions to
health care. Further adoption will depend largely on
how institutional barriers to the acceptance and dissemination
of IHCs are addressed. Some characteristics of
IHCs have profound implications for the patient–provider
relationship. Overall, the use of IHCs could be a
significant force in the advancement of preventive
medicine.