Is Telehealth the Right Choice for Sick Little Kids?

When kids are sick, parents often wonder if a virtual doctor visit is enough. A recent study suggests that for babies and toddlers, it might not be the best choice. The study looked at nearly 283, 000 kids in Ontario, Canada, aged 3 months to 2 years. It found that those who had a virtual doctor visit were nearly 50% more likely to end up in the emergency room within three days compared to kids who saw a doctor in person. Why is this happening? Young children can't always communicate their symptoms well. A doctor might miss important clues during a virtual visit. Also, parents might not feel reassured after a telehealth visit and decide to take their child to the ER for a second opinion.The study also looked at older kids, aged 2 to 17. They had a 19% higher risk of needing ER treatment after a virtual visit. This suggests that while telehealth can be useful, it might not be the best option for all situations. Doctors recommend that parents consider an in-person visit if they are still worried after a virtual appointment. This can help avoid crowded emergency rooms and ensure that kids get the care they need. The study also highlights the importance of managing expectations. Parents should not assume that a virtual visit will always be enough to manage their child's illness at home. To help families make the right choice, some hospitals offer symptom checkers. These tools can guide families to the most appropriate care setting, whether it's virtual or in-person.