Manuscript Number : SHISRRJ258321

A Digital Health Equity Model for Bridging Gaps in Telehealth Access for Pediatric Behavioral Disorders

Authors(4) :-Augustine Onyeka Okoli, Damilola Oluyemi Merotiwon, Opeoluwa Oluwanifemi Akomolafe, Erica Afrihyia

The rapid expansion of telehealth has transformed healthcare delivery, yet disparities in access persist, particularly for pediatric patients with behavioral disorders. This study proposes a Digital Health Equity Model (DHEM) designed to bridge gaps in telehealth accessibility, ensuring that all children, regardless of socioeconomic status, geographic location, or technological literacy, receive equitable care. The model integrates key dimensions, including infrastructure development, policy reform, digital literacy training, and culturally competent care delivery. By leveraging artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and data-driven decision-making, the DHEM enhances patient engagement, ensures data security, and optimizes resource allocation. Furthermore, the model incorporates community-based interventions, school partnerships, and mobile health (mHealth) solutions to mitigate barriers such as broadband limitations and caregiver involvement challenges. Case studies and pilot programs highlight the effectiveness of the DHEM in improving access, engagement, and treatment outcomes among underserved pediatric populations. This research underscores the necessity of a holistic, multi-stakeholder approach to digital health equity, advocating for policies that promote sustainable and inclusive telehealth solutions.

Authors and Affiliations

Augustine Onyeka Okoli
Longmed Medical Centre, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Damilola Oluyemi Merotiwon
Department of Healthcare Administration, University of the Potomac, Washington.D.C. USA.
Opeoluwa Oluwanifemi Akomolafe
Independent Researcher, UK
Erica Afrihyia
Independent Researcher, Ohio, USA

Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Mhealth, Healthcare Access, Digital Literacy, Policy Reform.

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Publication Details

Published in : Volume 8 | Issue 3 | May-June 2025
Date of Publication : 2025-05-20
License:  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Page(s) : 125-137
Manuscript Number : SHISRRJ258321
Publisher : Shauryam Research Institute

ISSN : 2581-6306

Cite This Article :

Augustine Onyeka Okoli, Damilola Oluyemi Merotiwon, Opeoluwa Oluwanifemi Akomolafe, Erica Afrihyia, "A Digital Health Equity Model for Bridging Gaps in Telehealth Access for Pediatric Behavioral Disorders", Shodhshauryam, International Scientific Refereed Research Journal (SHISRRJ), ISSN : 2581-6306, Volume 8, Issue 3, pp.125-137, May-June.2025
URL : https://shisrrj.com/SHISRRJ258321

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