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Emergency Department Presentations by Children in Remote Australia: A Population-based Study
Philippa Jane Dossetor1,2, Emily F M Fitzpatrick2,3, Kathryn Glass1
1Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
Global Pediatric Health
|February 22, 2021
Summary
Children in remote Western Australia, particularly those with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE), frequently visit emergency departments (EDs). High rates of preventable ED presentations highlight the need for improved healthcare access and culturally relevant interventions.
Area of Science:
- Indigenous Health
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Aboriginal leaders requested an examination of emergency department (ED) use among children in remote Western Australia.
- Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) is a significant concern in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and reasons for ED presentations in children from the Fitzroy Valley.
- To investigate the association between Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) and ED presentation rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of ED presentations for children born in 2002-03 in the Fitzroy Valley (2007-11).
- Data linkage and examination of presentation records for 127 out of 134 eligible children.
Main Results:
- A total of 1058 ED presentations were recorded over five years, with 81% of children having at least one.
- Common reasons for ED visits included social/screening, injuries, ear, skin, respiratory, and infectious diseases.
- Higher ED presentation rates were associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) and socio-economic factors like overcrowding and food insecurity.
Conclusions:
- Children in remote Fitzroy Crossing communities experience high rates of preventable ED visits.
- Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) is linked to increased ED utilization in this population.
- Culturally appropriate preventative programs and enhanced primary healthcare access are crucial for remote Australian communities.
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