Telehealth in Perioperative Pediatric Surgical Care

Introduction: Telehealth is the use of telecommunications technology in providing health services over a distance. Advantages include: accessibility of specialty care, lower overall costs, more efficient care planning, and CME training for rural communities. Additionally, teleconsultations programs are cost-effective, technology is dependable, and visit times are shorter, with no decrease in patient care quality. Aim: This study investigates readiness for teleconsultations for pediatric surgical care, assesses potential barriers, and identifies availability of at home telecommunications technology. Materials and Methods: The data was collected using a survey program consisting of 22 questions administered to patients’ parents located in specialty care clinics, pre-op surgery rooms, and post-op surgery rooms utilizing iPads. Results: Preliminary results show that 53% were very to extremely interested in utilizing teleconsultations. 92 % owned at least a computer with Internet access or a smart phone (60%) with video capabilities. Average distance from the hospital was 77.8 miles and 13% lived outside Utah. 62% missed work for appointments and 55% made arrangements for additional childcare, while about 20% have had to cancel appointments due to work (37%) or other reasons (32%). Conclusion: Our study shows that the majority of the families have the necessary equipment and are interested in telehealth services. There is also a need of telehealth services due to an average travel distance greater than one hour and the need for arranging additional accommodations for childcare and work obligations.