When your child is sick or needs a specialist’s opinion, every parent wants quick answers. But getting a pediatric referral can take weeks, sometimes months — and for busy families, that means missed school, time off work, and added stress.
With participating health plans, families now have a faster option: eConsults. Pediatricians across the state use this digital tool to connect with medical specialists directly, helping children get expert care quickly and conveniently — often without ever leaving their local clinic.
What is an eConsult in pediatric care?
An eConsult is a secure online communication between a child’s primary care provider (often their pediatrician) and a specialist. When a pediatrician has a question about your child’s condition — like whether a rash needs a dermatology visit or a heart murmur needs a cardiology evaluation — they can send the case electronically to a specialist through the eConsult.
The specialist reviews the information, provides recommendations, and sends the response back within a few days. The pediatrician then shares those results with you and updates your child’s care plan if needed.
All of this happens while your child stays under the care of their trusted pediatrician — and it’s available through participating care programs without a separate specialist visit to you.
How eConsults help families
- Less missed school and work – Your child can get care guidance without extra clinic visits or travel days.
- Faster answers – Specialists usually respond within days, helping your pediatrician act sooner.
- Better collaboration – Pediatricians and specialists work together, improving the safety and accuracy of your child’s care.
- Reduced stress – Parents can make decisions faster and focus on what matters most — their child’s well-being.
- potentially lower costs – eConsults are included in health plan benefits.
When might a pediatric eConsult be used?
- Skin issues: Rashes, eczema, or birthmarks
- Growth or nutrition concerns: Feeding challenges or slow weight gain
- Behavioral health: ADHD or anxiety management
- Infections: Recurrent ear infections or sinus problems
- Chronic conditions: Asthma, diabetes, or allergies
Pediatric eConsults empower family doctors to deliver fast, informed care while keeping children close to home and reducing unnecessary specialist visits.
If your child is on participating health plans, ask your pediatrician whether an eConsult could help answer health questions quickly — so your family can spend more time feeling better and less time waiting.