Parents' perspective on pediatric emergency department visits for low-acuity conditions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional bicentric study.

Although the pandemic has altered the landscape of presenting complaints and pediatric healthcare-seeking behaviors, most respondents indicated they would prefer to receive care in a clinic. This finding contradicts the view that most pediatric ED visits for low-acuity conditions are by choice rather than perceived necessity. Prioritizing improved access to primary care resources would better address the preferences and expectations of parents/guardians.