This Seems Like Some Useful Advice To Me On Paediatric Telehealth.

This appeared last week:

5 tips on teen telehealth consults

'Digital-native' youth may still face privacy and access challenges during COVID-19

24th August 2020

By Reuters Health

They may be 'digital natives' but teenagers still need help accessing telehealth, which is set to continue to play a key role in healthcare for younger people beyond the pandemic, according to a group of doctors.

Adolescents may face fewer technological barriers to using voice and video options, but doctors should still consider issues such as privacy, confidentiality and disparities in access, the team writes in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

……

Dr Evans and her coauthors have provided telehealth access to their patients for years and have seen the benefits. 

But they also have this advice for doctors providing such services: 

1. Before a scheduled telemedicine appointment confirm whether adolescents have a private and safe way to speak openly.
2. Wear a headset or use the chat feature of video conferencing tools to receive and discuss confidential information.
3. Mental health screenings may need a different approach as well.
4. Send e-questionnaires before appointments to capture their concerns, especially sensitive and urgent issues such as contraception, gender-affirming care, abuse at home, suicidal thoughts, substance use and eating disorders.
5. Consider inequities in technology and barriers to access for those who don't have internet, high-speed connections or electronic devices.

"As healthcare providers, we must acknowledge who telemedicine may leave out," Dr Evans said.

"It is a powerful tool that has great potential to continue to expand access to care for adolescents far after COVID-19 is in the past."

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More information: Journal of Adolescent Health 2020

Full article is here:

https://www.ausdoc.com.au/news/5-tips-teen-telehealth-consults

I have little to add as these experts have clearly given what is needed a great deal of thought! There is no doubt having a safe, trusted and secure environment to meet with the adolescent is crucial.

David.