Rising paediatric emergency department use despite demographic decline: a 23-year analysis

Despite reduced birth rates and a declining paediatric population, PED visits have increased disproportionately, driven by non-urgent cases. This discrepancy highlights systemic inefficiencies and behavioural determinants of inappropriate PED use, contributing to crowding. Comprehensive strategies, including enhanced primary care access, parental education, care integration and innovative organisational models, are necessary to ensure sustainable paediatric emergency care delivery.