Assessing the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Emergency Department Visits in Taiwan

Abstract

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly impacted healthcare systems worldwide. To assess the effects of the pandemic on pediatric emergency department (ED) visits in Taiwan, we conducted a study to evaluate changes in pediatric ED visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This retrospective study included pediatric patients (age ≤ 18) who visited the ED between January 21, 2019, and April 30, 2019, at three hospitals of the Cathay Health System, and compared them with a corresponding period in 2020. Basic information, including mode of arrival, triage level, disposition, chief complaints, and incidence rates, were analyzed before and during the pandemic. Results A total of 10,116 patients (6,009 in the pre-pandemic and 4,107 in the pandemic group) were included in this study. There was a 31.65% reduction in ED visits during the pandemic, but ambulance use increased by 5.97%. COVID-19-related complaints (fever, respiratory tract infection, gastrointestinal complaints) decreased during the pandemic. However, we observed an increased incidence rate ratio (IRR) for shortness of breath (IRR = 1.26), glycemic problems (IRR = 5.4), and psychological problems (IRR = 4.6). Critical complaints, including cardiac arrest (IRR = 5) and altered mental status (IRR = 3.08), also increased during the pandemic. Conclusion This study suggests that reallocating hospital staff to appropriate units, developing effective epidemic response strategies, and improving prehospital emergency medical capabilities can enhance the preparedness of the healthcare system for future pandemics and ensure a more efficient management of emergency cases.