Telemedicine and children: safety and limits

Audience: all

Telemedicine offers a convenient way for children to access healthcare from home. It can be helpful for minor illnesses, routine check-ins, and advice on common concerns. However, telemedicine has limits, especially when a child needs a physical exam, urgent care, or complex diagnosis. Parents and caregivers should know when telemedicine is appropriate and when to seek in-person care. This guide explains the safety considerations, red flags that need urgent attention, and how to prepare for and follow up after a telemedicine visit. Using telemedicine wisely can support children's health while keeping them safe.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 40°C (104°F) or fever lasting more than 3 days — contact a healthcare provider urgently.
• Child is unresponsive, extremely drowsy, or has severe pain — get emergency medical help right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Minor illnesses like colds, coughs, and mild rashes
• Behavioral and developmental concerns
• Medication questions and routine follow-ups
• Health advice and education

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency conditions such as difficulty breathing or unresponsiveness
• Situations requiring physical examination or diagnostic tests
• Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
• Complex or rare diseases needing specialist evaluation

What is Telemedicine for Children?

Telemedicine means using video calls, phone calls, or apps to talk with healthcare providers without going to a clinic. For children, this can include talking about symptoms, getting advice, and sometimes seeing a doctor or nurse remotely. It is often used for mild illnesses, follow-up visits, or managing long-term conditions.

When Telemedicine is Safe and Helpful

Telemedicine can be a good option for:

It allows quick access to care without travel or waiting rooms.

Limits of Telemedicine for Children

Telemedicine cannot replace all in-person care. It may not be suitable when:

In these cases, an in-person visit or emergency care is necessary.

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate In-Person Care

Watch for these danger signs and get urgent help if your child has:

If you see these, call emergency services or go to the nearest clinic immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from a telemedicine visit:

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

After the visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with stable internet or phone connection.
• Have your child’s medical history and current symptoms noted.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss.
• Gather any medications, devices, or previous test results.
• Ensure an adult is present to assist and support the child during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Monitor your child’s condition and watch for any worsening symptoms.
• Schedule in-person follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Keep records of the telemedicine visit and any prescriptions.

FAQs

Is telemedicine safe for children?

Yes, telemedicine is generally safe for children when used appropriately. It is helpful for minor illnesses and routine care but is not a substitute for emergency or complex medical evaluation.

When should I choose an in-person visit instead of telemedicine?

If your child has severe symptoms, needs a physical exam, or shows danger signs like difficulty breathing or unresponsiveness, an in-person visit or emergency care is necessary.

How can I prepare my child for a telemedicine appointment?

Find a quiet space, have your child’s symptoms and questions ready, ensure good internet or phone connection, and be present to help your child during the visit.

Can telemedicine provide prescriptions for my child?

Often, healthcare providers can prescribe medications through telemedicine when appropriate. However, some medications or situations may require an in-person evaluation first.

What if my child’s symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your child’s condition worsens or you notice any red flag symptoms, seek in-person medical care immediately, even if you recently had a telemedicine appointment.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telemedicine and Children: Guidance — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. When to Seek Emergency Care for Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telemedicine in Pediatric Care: Opportunities and Limitations — National Library of Medicine.

This guide provides general information about telemedicine for children and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek in-person evaluation for emergencies or if your child's condition worsens.