Parental Perceptions Toward Using Online Video Consultations With Pediatricians: Insights, Barriers, and Pathways to...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare Technology
• Telemedicine and Digital Health
• Healthcare Disparities Research

Background:

• Online video consultation (VC) use in pediatric care surged post-COVID-19.
• Understanding parental perspectives on VC is vital for equitable implementation.
• Geographical variations in VC adoption require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine parental perceptions of video consultation (VC) with pediatricians in Israel.
• To assess user experience, usefulness, and satisfaction with pediatric VC.
• To explore factors influencing VC adoption, including geographical region and prior experience.

Main Methods:

• Mixed methods approach combining an online survey (n=96) and focus groups (n=17).
• Survey utilized the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire to measure user experience, usefulness, and satisfaction.
• Focus groups explored children's experiences, remote diagnosis, communication, and emergency use.

Main Results:

• 82% of parents found VC saved time; 67% felt it improved healthcare access, but only 50% believed it met their needs.
• Parents in peripheral regions perceived higher VC usefulness, especially during security concerns, while central regions reported better user experiences.
• Children often showed more comfort with VC; parents raised concerns about remote diagnostic accuracy and communication quality.

Conclusions:

• Geographic disparities in VC adoption necessitate targeted interventions for peripheral regions.
• VC offers potential for enhanced healthcare accessibility, particularly in emergencies.
• Successful VC implementation requires addressing technical barriers, privacy, and clear care guidelines.