<p>​In an event held at The Aga Khan University, The Department of Paediatrics commemorated the 2^nd anniversary of its convenient, free-of-cost tele-clinics for children, &#39;Child Connect&#39;, which has made free health advice available for parents across Pakistan.</p><p>Child Connect Services revolves around the understanding that young children cannot communicate their pain and discomfort when unwell. Hence quality and timely medical advise can help their pateints offer them comfort and care.</p><p>A free-of-cost one-stop solution for parents, Child Connect has enhanced access to timely information, tailor-made treatment advice and care without any delay, during its two years of operation.</p><p>According to Dr Ali Faisal Saleem, Vice Chair, Department of Paediatrics at The Aga Khan University, the need for Child Connect Services was greatly felt when the pandemic struck and parents were reluctant in bringing their children to the hospital for medical consultation, leading to a communication gap, which can be harmful for the child&#39;s health. Hence, Child Connect provided a convenient way for monitoring the child&#39;s health condition and providing timely guidance to parents regarding any health-related queries.​
</p><p>So far, Child Connect Services has handled and responded to over 1,900 calls across Pakistan, having aided and assisted parents in distress over their child&#39;s health, says Dr Ali, adding that, “One-third of these calls required urgent intervention, while around half of these calls required reassurance, which gives parents confidence, and proves helpful for the entire family.&quot;</p><p>Seeking to promote empathy-centred care, a hallmark of AKUH, the initiative has successfully managed to enhance the experience of both our paediatric patients and their parents, as parents benefit from continued communication and treatment with their child&#39;s doctor. </p><p><strong><em>Parents can avail of free-of-cost consultation at Child Connect by calling: (021) 111 911 911, Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. </em></strong></p>