Disparities in the expansion of telemedicine in pediatric specialty care through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the rapid expansion of telemedicine, including in specialties traditionally dependent on physical exams, such as pediatric surgery. Trends in its utilization as in-person visits resumed are not well understood, nor is its effect on mitigating disparities related to social determinants of health (SDOH). We hypothesize that telemedicine utilization increased after the pandemic and has remained higher compared to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, we hypothesize that increased telemedicine use has contributed to lower no-show rates and more equitable access to care.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted of all outpatient visits at a single outpatient pediatric surgery clinic at a quaternary academic center from 01/0

SUBMITTER: Hassan MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11871496 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature