Parent‐reported hesitancy to seek emergency care for children at the crest of the first wave of COVID‐19 in Chicago

Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patient Volumes, Acuity, and Outcomes in Pediatric Emergency Departments

“… 9 , 27 A survey conducted in Chicago reported that nearly 25% of caregivers were hesitant to bring their child for ED care when presented with a hypothetical emergency condition. 28 In addition, the widespread implementation of physical distancing and hygiene precautions have further contributed to these reductions. 29 , 30 Other system changes in response to COVID-19 such as virtual pediatric ED care may also have played a role.…”

Forecast modeling to identify changes in pediatric emergency department utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…However, one report has noted a decline by 30% among primary care pediatric practice visits during the pandemic [ 27 ], suggesting that at least some of the observed declines may represent concerning delays in care. In one survey conducted in metropolitan Chicago, nearly one in four caregivers expressed hesitancy with seeking ED care for their children in a hypothetical emergency [ 28 ].…”

Child maltreatment-related children's emergency department visits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut

“…Public messaging to “stay at home” and closure of certain healthcare settings also likely shifted healthcare-seeking behavior during the pandemic. It is logical to assume that the complex interplay of these factors reduced child safety and access to care ( Bram et al, 2020 ; Macy, Smith, Cartland, Golbeck, & Davis, 2021 ). Furthermore, social distancing measures reduced the visibility of children to mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect, including less interface with teachers, daycare providers, and primary care clinicians.…”