Telemedicine in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Pediatric Rehabilitation Perspective.

ABSTRACT: In the spring of 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 evolved into a worldwide pandemic, forcing traditional face-to-face healthcare to a standstill. Telemedicine was quickly adopted as a major tool for pediatric rehabilitation services. This article describes the national legislative response of the United States to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and the opportunities and challenges of implementing telemedicine in pediatric rehabilitation outpatient settings, consultations, as well as physician and patient education. The feasibility of performing a remote pediatric musculoskeletal and neurological tele-evaluation is also discussed. Although challenges exist, telemedicine has demonstrated its potential and has proven to be a practical system. Future developments in technology and accessibility, in addition to support from government and third-party payers, have the potential to make telemedicine an effective and vital platform in a coordinated healthcare system.