Medical Conditions

Can I Use Telehealth for My Baby's Pediatric Visit?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Okonkwo, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Neonatologist

Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH, Mayo Clinic guidelines

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Last reviewed:

If your baby has been diagnosed with or you suspect can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit, here is what the evidence says.

The short answer

Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it.

Key takeaways

  • Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it.
  • Usually normal when: Using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms
  • Call your doctor if: Do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness
  • Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
“Fever itself is not an illness — rather, it is a sign or symptom that the body is fighting an infection. Fever stimulates certain defenses, such as the white blood cells, which attack and destroy invading bacteria.”
— Fever and Your Child, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.

What Parents Should Know

According to AAP, NIH, Mayo Clinic guidelines, telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it. At 0-3 months, telehealth is limited for very young babies because many conditions require a physical exam. However, it can be useful for breastfeeding consultations (with video), asking about normal newborn concerns (skin changes, spit-up patterns, stool colors), and medication questions. Any concern about fever, breathing, or feeding refusal in this age group requires an in-person visit. It is generally considered normal when using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness.

Sources: [1], [2], [3]

Normal vs. Concerning

Usually Normal
Worth Discussing
Using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms
Do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness
Your pediatrician recommending telehealth for appropriate conditions
If your baby's condition worsens during or after a telehealth visit, seek in-person care immediately
Switching to an in-person visit if the telehealth provider determines one is needed
You want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth

By Age

What to expect by age

0-3 months

Telehealth is limited for very young babies because many conditions require a physical exam. However, it can be useful for breastfeeding consultations (with video), asking about normal newborn concerns (skin changes, spit-up patterns, stool colors), and medication questions. Any concern about fever, breathing, or feeding refusal in this age group requires an in-person visit.

3-6 months

Telehealth works well for: diaper rash evaluation (show via video), eczema management, questions about starting solids, sleep concerns, and mild cold symptoms in an otherwise well-appearing baby. Your pediatrician can assess your baby's appearance, activity level, and breathing via video. If they determine an in-person exam is needed, they will let you know.

6-12 months

More conditions can be managed via telehealth at this age. Pink eye (conjunctivitis) evaluation, mild upper respiratory symptoms, constipation management, and behavioral questions are all appropriate telehealth topics. Your doctor may also use telehealth for reviewing lab results, discussing developmental concerns, and coordinating referrals.

12-24 months

Telehealth becomes increasingly useful as your child grows. Toddler behavioral concerns, toilet training questions, nutrition guidance, mild injuries assessment, and follow-up for chronic conditions can all be handled virtually. Some insurance plans now cover telehealth visits at the same rate as in-person visits.

2-3 years

Many routine concerns can be addressed via telehealth for this age group. Your child may even enjoy seeing the doctor on the screen. Good candidates for telehealth: follow-up visits, chronic condition management, behavioral concerns, mild illness, and parent education. Poor candidates: ear infections (need otoscope), suspected strep (need throat swab), and any condition requiring hands-on examination.

What to Tell Your Pediatrician

  • Describe when you first noticed can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if you want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth.
  • Mention if you have difficulty accessing in-person care and want to discuss telehealth options.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

What Should You Do?

When to take action

Probably normal when...
  • Using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms
  • Your pediatrician recommending telehealth for appropriate conditions
  • Switching to an in-person visit if the telehealth provider determines one is needed
Mention at your next visit when...
  • You want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth
  • You have difficulty accessing in-person care and want to discuss telehealth options
  • You had a telehealth visit and symptoms have not improved as expected
Act now when...
  • Do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness
  • If your baby's condition worsens during or after a telehealth visit, seek in-person care immediately

What You Can Do at Home

  • Keep track of when you notice can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
  • Remember that using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms — this is generally within the range of normal.
  • At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
  • Follow any care instructions from your pediatrician. Keep a written log of symptoms to bring to appointments.
  • While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness.

Should I Take My Baby to Urgent Care or the ER?

The decision between urgent care and the emergency room depends on the severity of your baby's condition. The ER is for life-threatening or potentially life-threatening conditions: difficulty breathing, high fever in babies under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, serious injuries, or altered consciousness. Pediatric urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening but time-sensitive issues: ear infections, mild croup, minor injuries, rashes, moderate fevers in babies over 3 months, or when your pediatrician is unavailable. When in doubt, call your pediatrician first or go to the ER.

Going to the ER with My Baby - What to Bring

When heading to the ER with your baby, bring essentials: insurance card, your baby's medication list, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or nursing cover), a pacifier, a comfort item, and a phone charger. If possible, bring a list of your baby's symptoms including when they started, any medications given, and relevant medical history. ER visits can involve long waits, so bring items to keep your baby comfortable. If your baby's condition is life-threatening, call 911 instead of driving.

Should I Get a Second Opinion for My Baby?

Seeking a second opinion for your baby is completely appropriate and often encouraged by good doctors. Consider a second opinion when: a serious diagnosis has been made, surgery or major treatment is recommended, you feel uncertain about the diagnosis or treatment plan, the condition is rare, or your baby is not improving with treatment. Most insurance plans cover second opinions. Your current doctor should not be offended by your request - it is a normal part of good medical care and demonstrates responsible parenting.

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Frequently asked questions

Is can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit normal?
Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it.
When should I call the doctor about can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit?
Do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness If your baby's condition worsens during or after a telehealth visit, seek in-person care immediately
When is can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit normal?
Using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms Your pediatrician recommending telehealth for appropriate conditions Switching to an in-person visit if the telehealth provider determines one is needed
What causes can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit?
Telehealth (video or phone visits with your pediatrician) can be a convenient and effective option for many baby-related concerns. It works well for: rash evaluation, mild illness assessment, feeding and sleep questions, behavior concerns, medication questions, and follow-up visits. It is NOT appropriate for emergencies, high fevers in young infants, breathing difficulty, or any condition requiring a physical examination. Telehealth is best used as a complement to in-person care, not a replacement for it. Common explanations include: Using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms. Your pediatrician recommending telehealth for appropriate conditions.
What should I mention to my pediatrician about can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit?
You should mention can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit at your next visit if: You want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth. You have difficulty accessing in-person care and want to discuss telehealth options. You had a telehealth visit and symptoms have not improved as expected.
Is can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit normal at 0-3 months?
Telehealth is limited for very young babies because many conditions require a physical exam. However, it can be useful for breastfeeding consultations (with video), asking about normal newborn concerns (skin changes, spit-up patterns, stool colors), and medication questions. Any concern about fever, breathing, or feeding refusal in this age group requires an in-person visit.
Is can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit normal at 3-6 months?
Telehealth works well for: diaper rash evaluation (show via video), eczema management, questions about starting solids, sleep concerns, and mild cold symptoms in an otherwise well-appearing baby. Your pediatrician can assess your baby's appearance, activity level, and breathing via video. If they determine an in-person exam is needed, they will let you know.
Should I go to the ER for can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit?
Seek emergency care if do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness, or if if your baby's condition worsens during or after a telehealth visit, seek in-person care immediately. When in doubt, call your pediatrician's after-hours line for guidance.
Does can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit go away on its own?
In many cases, can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit resolves on its own, especially when using telehealth for non-urgent questions and mild symptoms. By 2-3 years, many routine concerns can be addressed via telehealth for this age group. Your child may even enjoy seeing the doctor on the screen. Good candidates for telehealth: follow-up visits, chronic condition management, behavioral concerns, mild illness, and parent education. Poor candidates: ear infections (need otoscope), suspected strep (need throat swab), and any condition requiring hands-on examination.
AAPNIHMAYO CLINIC

References

  1. [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Telehealth: What Families Need to Know. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
  2. [2]National Library of Medicine. Telehealth in Pediatrics: Opportunities and Challenges. NIH
  3. [3]Mayo Clinic. Telehealth: Technology Meets Health Care. Mayo Clinic

Doctor Visit Checklist

Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Can I Use Telehealth for My Baby's Pediatric Visit?.

Things to mention

  • Describe when you first noticed can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if you want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth.
  • Mention if you have difficulty accessing in-person care and want to discuss telehealth options.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

Observations to share

  • You want to know if your baby's concern can be handled via telehealth
  • You have difficulty accessing in-person care and want to discuss telehealth options
  • You had a telehealth visit and symptoms have not improved as expected

Urgent signs to report immediately

  • Do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness
  • If your baby's condition worsens during or after a telehealth visit, seek in-person care immediately

My notes

From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members

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Bottom line

Most cases of can i use telehealth for my baby's pediatric visit are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if do not use telehealth for emergencies: difficulty breathing, high fever in infants under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, or altered consciousness.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

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Should I Take My Baby to Urgent Care or the ER?

The decision between urgent care and the emergency room depends on the severity of your baby's condition. The ER is for life-threatening or potentially life-threatening conditions: difficulty breathing, high fever in babies under 3 months, seizures, severe dehydration, serious injuries, or altered consciousness. Pediatric urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening but time-sensitive issues: ear infections, mild croup, minor injuries, rashes, moderate fevers in babies over 3 months, or when your pediatrician is unavailable. When in doubt, call your pediatrician first or go to the ER.

Going to the ER with My Baby - What to Bring

When heading to the ER with your baby, bring essentials: insurance card, your baby's medication list, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or nursing cover), a pacifier, a comfort item, and a phone charger. If possible, bring a list of your baby's symptoms including when they started, any medications given, and relevant medical history. ER visits can involve long waits, so bring items to keep your baby comfortable. If your baby's condition is life-threatening, call 911 instead of driving.

Should I Get a Second Opinion for My Baby?

Seeking a second opinion for your baby is completely appropriate and often encouraged by good doctors. Consider a second opinion when: a serious diagnosis has been made, surgery or major treatment is recommended, you feel uncertain about the diagnosis or treatment plan, the condition is rare, or your baby is not improving with treatment. Most insurance plans cover second opinions. Your current doctor should not be offended by your request - it is a normal part of good medical care and demonstrates responsible parenting.

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Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) in Babies

Achondroplasia is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism, affecting about 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 births. It is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene and is usually apparent at birth with characteristic features including short limbs, a larger head, and a prominent forehead. Intelligence is normal. With monitoring for specific complications and supportive care, children with achondroplasia lead full, active, and independent lives.

Adenoid Hypertrophy and Breathing

Adenoids are lymphoid tissue located behind the nose that help fight infection in young children. When adenoids become enlarged (adenoid hypertrophy), they can block the nasal airway, causing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, nasal speech, and sleep-disordered breathing. Enlarged adenoids are most common between ages 2-7 and are a leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea in young children. Treatment ranges from watchful waiting and nasal steroids to surgical removal (adenoidectomy) if breathing or sleep is significantly affected.