Almost 400 children with COVID-19 have been able to get the care they need through the innovative online COVIDKids care service – a part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s strong response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said 96 percent of children have avoided a trip to hospital thanks to the $3.7 million service which provides online care and guidance to COVID-positive kids and their families.
“South Australia prepared well to look after our youngest cohort of COVID-19 patients and the success of this service has proven the skill of the SA Health teams that created it,” said Minister Wade.
“Children who are referred to COVIDKids receive regular online check-ups, support and advice from the comfort and safety of their own home. If a child needs in-person care, the COVIDKids team can organise for them to attend hospital safely where the appropriate care is provided in a purpose-built clinical area.
“Close to 400 patients have been referred to this service and have been able to access in-person and virtual care from experienced paediatric nurses, doctors and other supporting staff from the Women’s and Children’s Health Network.
“Almost 70 children have avoided a direct trip to the Paediatric Emergency Department after being referred into COVIDKids by the South Australian Ambulance Service.”
Women’s and Children’s Health Network CEO Lindsey Gough said the service has allowed children to receive care at home, ensuring a reduction in unnecessary presentations to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and keeping beds available for those who need them.
“We know that most children and young people with COVID-19 will only experience a mild illness or will have no symptoms at all and can safely remain at home without the need for medical support,” said Ms Gough.
“Children and families who require additional support may be referred to COVIDKids by SA Health’s COVID Response Care Team, a Paediatric Emergency Department or the SA Ambulance Service.
“Our expert COVIDKids team will virtually assess children with COVID-19 and offer support and medical advice to families in their own home. By receiving care and treatment at home, children are able to remain in isolation and avoid the stress that can sometimes be associated with visiting a hospital.”
The COVIDKids team monitors children through either a daily or twice daily phone call or video call.
More information on what you can do if your child tests positive to COVID-19 can be found
