Like many parents who have had to adjust to a new normal due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, Joanna Glazer worried how her daughter Madison Glazer, age 10, would stay on track with her studies and medical appointments with social distancing.
“My daughter has Autism Spectrum Disorder and we rely on her weekly appointments with a pediatric psychologist as part of her care. When the pandemic began, we all became so worried about the possibility of having to stop that. Her therapy sessions are so important for her,” said Joanna.
Thanks to technology and through the help of our telemedicine team, Madison was able to stay on track.
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s telehealth program, Nicklaus Children’s Virtual Care, offers virtual appointments with pediatric subspecialists. Depending on the treatment and type of specialty, parents can arrange to see a Nicklaus Children’s specialist for consultations and follow up care through a web application, available for download on mobile devices and tablets.
“Nicklaus Children’s recognized the need to use technology early on to support patients and families,” said Dr. Saima Aftab, Vice President of Administration for Nicklaus Children’s Pediatric Specialists and Nicklaus Children’s Virtual Care. “Through the years, our programs have evolved and adapted in order to continue to bring pediatric care to families when they need it most,” she said.
Joanna says connecting was easy. We were contacted by the doctor’s office and provided instructions on how to download the app and connect with the doctor,” said Joanna. “And Madison loved being able to see her doctor on her computer screen.”
Madison has started to attend sessions in the psychology clinic now that offices are open with enhanced safety procedures. Her doctors will continue to offer virtual follow-up visits to complement the in-person sessions.
“We are so grateful. We are thankful for Nicklaus Children’s and technology for keeping Madison happy and healthy,” said Joanna.
For more information on telehealth programs and services, visit: NicklausChildrensVirtualCare.org