In-Person Clinic vs Telemedicine: When to Choose One vs the Other for Pediatric Care

Audience: pediatric

Choosing between an in-person clinic visit and telemedicine for your child's health can feel confusing. Telemedicine lets you connect with healthcare providers remotely, often from home, which can be convenient and quick for many common health concerns. However, some situations require a physical exam or urgent care that telemedicine cannot provide. This guide helps families understand when telemedicine is a good choice and when an in-person visit is safer or more effective. Knowing the red flags that need immediate attention and what to prepare for a telemedicine visit can help you make the best decision for your child's health. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but does not replace the need for in-person care when necessary.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is unresponsive or difficult to wake — call emergency services right away.
• Child has a seizure or repeated vomiting — go to the nearest emergency room promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Minor illnesses like colds, mild fevers, and rashes
• Follow-up visits after hospital stays or surgeries
• Managing chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies
• Behavioral health support and counseling
• Medication reviews and advice

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe symptoms needing physical examination
• Injuries requiring stitches or imaging
• Vaccinations and routine well-child checkups
• Tests requiring blood work or imaging
• Emergency situations such as seizures or difficulty breathing

What Is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine means using technology like video calls or phone calls to talk with a healthcare provider without going to a clinic. It can be helpful for quick questions, follow-ups, or managing ongoing health issues. It saves travel time and can be easier for children who feel nervous in clinics.

When Telemedicine Works Well for Children

Telemedicine is often suitable for:

These visits usually do not require a physical exam or immediate tests.

When to Choose In-Person Clinic Visits

Some situations need a hands-on exam or urgent care, such as:

In-person visits allow providers to examine your child thoroughly and perform tests.

Red Flags That Need Immediate In-Person Care

Watch for these danger signs and seek emergency care right away:

If you see any of these, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from a telemedicine visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After the appointment:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection.
• Have your child's medical history and current medications available.
• Write down your child's symptoms and any questions you want to ask.
• Have home medical tools like a thermometer ready if possible.
• Make sure your child is nearby and comfortable during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Fill any prescribed medications promptly.
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and seek care if they worsen.
• Keep a record of the telemedicine visit for future reference.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for my child?

Telemedicine is a helpful tool for many health concerns but cannot replace all in-person visits. Some conditions need physical exams, tests, or urgent care that only a clinic can provide.

What should I do if my child's symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your child's symptoms worsen, especially if they include difficulty breathing, high fever, or severe pain, seek in-person care immediately or go to the emergency room.

Is telemedicine safe for young children?

Yes, telemedicine can be safe and effective for young children when used for appropriate issues like minor illnesses or follow-ups. However, some young children may need in-person exams depending on their symptoms.

Do I need special equipment for a telemedicine visit?

Usually, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access is enough. Having a thermometer or other home health tools can help provide useful information during the visit.

How do I know if my child's condition is an emergency?

Emergency signs include trouble breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures, or severe dehydration. If you notice these, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. When to See a Doctor — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine and Pediatric Care — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Choosing Wisely: Pediatric Care — Mayo Clinic.
5. When to Seek Emergency Care for Children — FamilyDoctor.org, American Academy of Family Physicians.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your child's healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment.