Pediatric capacity crisis: A framework and strategies to prepare for a pediatric surge

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Pediatric Health
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• A significant pediatric capacity crisis occurred in late 2022, driven by increased respiratory viruses, workforce shortages, and reduced inpatient unit availability.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted healthcare systems' ability to rapidly deploy collaborative, system-wide solutions during critical surges.
• Past pandemic responses (COVID-19, H1N1) offer valuable insights for addressing current and future pediatric healthcare challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the factors contributing to the 2022 pediatric capacity crisis.
• To leverage lessons learned from prior health crises, including COVID-19 and H1N1.
• To propose actionable strategies for managing future surges in pediatric patient volume.

Main Methods:

• Review of factors contributing to the 2022 pediatric capacity crisis.
• Analysis of successful system-wide responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Synthesis of recommendations based on historical pandemic insights and the recent pediatric surge.

Main Results:

• Identified key drivers of the pediatric capacity crisis: viral surges, staffing deficits, and unit closures.
• Highlighted the potential for adaptive, collaborative strategies in healthcare delivery during crises.
• Established a framework for proactive management of pediatric patient surges.

Conclusions:

• Proactive, multi-level strategies are essential for mitigating future pediatric capacity crises.
• Policy, hospital systems, and individual clinicians must collaborate to ensure sustained high-quality pediatric care.
• Implementing lessons from past crises can enhance resilience in pediatric healthcare systems.