Abstract Background Communication plays a central role in the long-term management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet younger patients often approach health information and decision-making differently from previous generations. Generation Z, raised in a digital environment and accustomed to rapid access to information, frequently expects clarity, transparency, and a collaborative relationship with their care team. The aim of this work was to outline practical communication approaches that clinicians can use to enhance engagement and support treatment adherence in this population. Methods This narrative report draws on day-to-day clinical experience in a tertiary IBD centre, structured discussions with colleagues involved in patient education, and insights from established programmes for adolescents and young adults with chronic illness. Particular attention was given to communication preferences repeatedly observed during outpatient care, follow-up calls, and educational sessions. Results Patients belonging to Generation Z consistently expressed a preference for concise, visually supported explanations and for receiving information in formats they already use in everyday life. Mobile applications, symptom trackers, and secure messaging platforms were especially well received, often improving appointment preparation and enabling more meaningful discussions during consultations. Clear signposting of treatment options, shared planning, and acknowledging patients’ own research strengthened rapport and trust. Importantly, younger patients responded positively when communication was framed as a partnership rather than instruction, which in turn appeared to improve adherence and willingness to report symptoms early. Conclusion Aligning communication strategies with the expectations and habits of Generation Z can lead to better understanding of disease, greater engagement in shared decision-making, and improved continuity of care. Integrating digital tools into routine practice further supports self-management and complements traditional clinical interactions. References: 1. Nguyen, N. H., Martinez, I., Atreja, A., Sitapati, A. M., Sandborn, W. J., OhnoMachado, L., & Singh, S. (2022). Digital health technologies for remote monitoring and management of inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 117(1), 78–97. 2. PubMed+1 Park, M., Lee, J., Cheon, J. H., Yoon, N., Yu, J., & Nam, H. (2025). Userneeds based app for patients with inflammatory bowel disease: development and usability study. BMC Health Services Research, 25, 1285. DOI: 10.1186/s12913-025-13323-2. BioMed Central+2PubMed+2 3. Hommel, K. A., Noser, A. E., Plevinsky, J., Gamwell, K., & Denson, L. A. (2024). Pilot and feasibility of the SMART IBD mobile app to improve selfmanagement in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, 78(6), 1273–1278. DOI: 10.1002/jpn3.12229. PubMed+1 4. Gordon, M., Sinopoulou, V., Lakunina, S., GjuladinHellon, T., Bracewell, K., & Akobeng, A. K. (2023). Remote care through telehealth for people with inflammatory bowel disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2023, (5), CD014821. Conflict of interest: Vrban, Ana: No conflict of interest Oroz, Vesna: No conflict of interest
Vrban et al. (Thu,) studied this question.