Neurodevelopmental Care Utilization among Preterm Infants in the Military Health Care System

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare
• Military Medicine
• Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

Background:

• Neurodevelopmental care is crucial for preterm infants.
• Variations in care access and utilization exist within healthcare systems.
• The Military Health System (MHS) provides care to a unique population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate neurodevelopmental care utilization patterns in preterm infants within the MHS.
• To identify factors associated with variations in care access.
• To inform policy development for equitable follow-up care.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of preterm infants born in the MHS (2017-2021).
• Categorization of preterm birth by gestational age (extreme, very, moderate, late).
• Analysis of neurodevelopmental care utilization within two years of birth, considering demographics and geographic factors.

Main Results:

• Higher utilization of specialty care observed in moderate, very, and extreme preterm births compared to late preterm.
• Black infants demonstrated fewer total visits than White infants.
• Significant geographic disparities in utilization noted, with lower rates in Pacific and West South-Central regions.

Conclusions:

• Neurodevelopmental care utilization among preterm infants in the MHS is influenced by gestational age, race, and geographic location.
• Existing disparities underscore the need for standardized neurodevelopmental follow-up policies.
• Equitable access to essential follow-up care requires systemic improvements within the MHS.