Abstract
The Australian healthcare system faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting innovative responses in both pandemic management and routine health services, including maternal and pediatric care. As the pandemic unfolded, telehealth emerged as a pivotal method for delivering safe healthcare services. This study investigates the adoption of virtual care to address the health needs of mothers and infants throughout the COVID-19 period, spanning from March 2020 to December 2022. Through quantitative analyses, the study compares telehealth adoption across various Australian jurisdictions. The findings reveal that face-to-face services remained predominant during the pandemic, yet telehealth services exhibited notable adoption. Telephone services surpassed video conferences in usage. A surge followed by stabilization was observed in antenatal care telehealth services’ utilization, indicating a lasting preference even beyond pandemic measures. The integration of virtual care has shown promising benefits, including enhanced access to care, better patient outcomes, and potential cost savings. To optimize virtual care’s potential, investments in digital infrastructure, education, training, and comprehensive policies are essential. The study’s findings offer strategic insights to enhance antenatal care and address future healthcare challenges both within Australia and beyond.
Recommended Citation
Qureshi, Sumaira; Haque, Marjia; and John, Blooma Mohan, "Telehealth for Maternal Healthcare During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Australia" (2023). AISWN International Research Workshop on Women, IS and Grand Challenges 2023. 1.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/aiswn2023/1