Institution-initiated text messaging can reduce unplanned emergency department visits after appendectomy

Hospital-initiated text messaging system reduced unplanned ED visits after pediatric appendectomy from 5.8% to 2.4% by proactively connecting families with telehealth or phone consultations for postoperative concerns. Over 90% of families found the system helpful, with 21.6% using it to address questions that might otherwise have resulted in ED visits.