Use of Telehealth Technology in the Delivery of Community Health Services for Children and Young People in New Zealand. A Scoping Review

Abstract

Aim To explore what is known about the use of telehealth for delivering community health services to children and young people in New Zealand, this review will map the existing evidence and identify key characteristics, gaps, and opportunities to support equitable service delivery.

Methods A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework, enhanced by Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. A systematic search was performed across MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and CINAHL databases, supplemented by grey literature searching. Included studies focused on children and young people up to 24 years, involved telehealth interventions, and were conducted in New Zealand primary care or community settings. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality appraisal. Findings were synthesised thematically.

Results Twelve studies were included from 259 initial records. Three main themes emerged: enablers, barriers, and acceptability/feasibility. Enablers included improved healthcare access, reduced time and travel costs, enhanced care coordination, and strong therapeutic relationships. Barriers encompassed limited access to devices and reliable internet, privacy concerns, and perceived loss of care quality. Telehealth was generally acceptable and feasible across various paediatric services, though effectiveness varied by consultation type. Evidence specifically addressing Māori children and young people was notably limited.

Conclusions Telehealth shows promise for improving access to paediatric community health services in New Zealand but risks exacerbating digital inequities. Future telehealth development must prioritise digital inclusion, cultural responsiveness, and co-creation alongside Māori and other populations experiencing inequities to ensure equitable healthcare access for all New Zealand children.