Parental Acceptance of Telemedicine in Pediatric Surgery and Its Implications for Future Care Models: Survey Study

Digitalization has profoundly transformed health care delivery, including the increasing use of telemedical applications in pediatric care. While the economic benefits and improved access associated with telemedicine in rural regions are well documented, data on caregiver acceptance and demand in metropolitan areas remain limited.

This study aimed to assess caregivers' willingness to use telemedical tools in the context of pediatric surgery in a metropolitan area.

A 15-item survey was distributed to caregivers of pediatric surgical patients between May and November 2023 at the Department of Pediatric Surgery of the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. The survey included questions on sociodemographic factors, previous experience with telemedicine, and preferences regarding telemedical support. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Group comparisons were performed using the χ2 test or Fisher exact test, where appropriate.

A total of 100 families participated in the study. The median age of the pediatric patients was 5 years (IQR 11.75), and the median age of caregivers was 37 years (IQR 14). Congenital conditions accounted for 65% (n=65) of the underlying diagnoses. Overall, 90% (n=88/98) of the interviewed families expressed interest in telemedicine as an integrative health care solution for their children, whereas only 15% (n=15) reported on previous experiences. A primary telemedical consultation was considered acceptable by 53% (n=50/95) of the participants. Caregivers' preferences were not significantly associated with distance to the nearest hospital (P=.77), employment status (P=.89), and family size (P=.59).

Caregivers in an urban pediatric surgical setting show substantial interest in telemedical care options. Acceptance appears to be independent of geographic proximity to health care facilities, suggesting that telemedicine may represent a relevant addition to pediatric surgical care even in metropolitan regions. Further studies are needed to evaluate practical implementation, including technical, legal, and compliance-related aspects.