Geographic Variation in Acute Pediatric Mental Health Utilization.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Geospatial Analysis
• Pediatric Mental Health

Background:

• Acute pediatric mental health (MH) interventions are crucial for child well-being.
• Understanding geographic disparities in service utilization is key to equitable care access.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify geographic areas with high demand for pediatric mental health services.
• Characterize the socioeconomic and demographic factors of these high-need communities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 10,866 pediatric emergency department (ED) or hospital visits (2017-2019).
• Spatial analysis to map high-utilization clusters by census tract.
• Comparison of census tract characteristics using US Census Bureau data.

Main Results:

• High pediatric mental health utilization clusters were found in lower socioeconomic status neighborhoods.
• Areas with high utilization showed lower median household income and less computer access.
• Specific regional patterns included fewer children per neighborhood and higher teen birth rates.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric mental health service utilization varies significantly by neighborhood and demographics.
• Social determinants of health are linked to mental health service use.
• Geographic insights can guide targeted, culturally relevant interventions to reduce acute pediatric mental health needs and promote equity.