They may be ‘digital natives’ but teenagers still need help accessing telehealth, which is set to continue to play a key role in healthcare for younger people beyond the pandemic, according to a group of doctors.

Adolescents may face fewer technological barriers to using voice and video options, but doctors should still consider issues such as privacy, confidentiality and disparities in access, the team writes in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Lead author Dr Yolanda Evans of the University of Washington, US, says the changes brought about by the pandemic has been of benefit to some teens, but have also led to significant problems.

The lack of a routine schedule, limited social interaction, missed milestones such as graduation ceremonies, access to alcohol or prescription medications at home and time away from friends has amplified the need for support services, she says.