Embracing telehealth: supporting young children and families through occupational therapy in Singapore during COVID-19

Abstract

COVID-19 has significantly changed the way we work, play, and lead our everyday lives. It has caused serious public health, economic and social challenges, impacting individuals’ health and well-being. Our Occupational Therapy (OT) services at Child Development Unit (CDU), which is a hospital-based outpatient paediatric clinic, had to adapt to pandemic-related national policies to provide ongoing support and care for our patients and families. Healthcare services were required to leverage on teleconsultations and suspend physical consultations during the national ‘Circuit Breaker’ period. This disruption made us review our clinic workflows and service delivery options to comply with pandemic-related national measures. Our service continuity was maintained through teleconsultations, online parent workshops and developing online resources for community outreach. Though challenging, online platforms have continued to create new opportunities in providing care to our families, and supporting our community.