Impact of COVID-19 on Pediatric Primary Care Visits at Four Academic Institutions in the Carolinas

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Primary Care
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread disruption to healthcare services.
• Understanding its impact on pediatric primary care is crucial for maintaining child health.
• Previous research has not fully detailed the changes in visit volume and type.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the changes in the number and types of pediatric primary care visits in April 2020 compared to April 2019.
• To identify patient characteristics associated with obtaining pediatric primary care during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients (0-18 years) from four academic institutions.
• Data collected included visit numbers, types, diagnoses, and patient demographics (age, race/ethnicity, insurance).
• Logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with receiving care in 2020.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in overall pediatric primary care visits was observed in April 2020 (42,670) compared to April 2019 (77,560).
• Both well-child visits and visits for chronic conditions decreased substantially.
• Telehealth visits accounted for 6,616 visits in 2020.
• Black or Hispanic children, younger patients, those with acute visits, or private insurance were more likely to receive care in 2020.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to a substantial reduction in pediatric primary care, affecting both routine and chronic condition management.
• Disparities in care access may have been exacerbated, with certain demographic groups being less likely to receive care.
• Further research is needed to address the long-term consequences of reduced pediatric primary care access.