Disparities in Health Care Transition Preparation Among US Youth

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Health Services Research
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Access to health care transition preparation services is crucial for youth.
• Limited research exists on disparities in accessing these vital services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify individual, family, and health system factors associated with disparities in health care transition preparation for US youth.
• To examine which subgroups of youth are least likely to receive these services.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study using 2018-2022 National Survey of Children's Health data.
• Analysis of responses from parents/caregivers of 77,280 youth aged 12-17 years.
• Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models used to assess associations.

Main Results:

• Only 18% of youth received health care transition preparation services.
• Youth who were male, 12-14 years old, Hispanic, Black, or Asian were less likely to receive services.
• Fewer services were received by youth without special health care needs, without a medical home, uninsured, or from households with only a high school education.

Conclusions:

• The overall prevalence of health care transition preparation is low.
• Significant disparities exist, highlighting subgroups needing targeted support.
• Clinical and system-level interventions are necessary to improve access and preparation for all youth.