Racial and Ethnic Differences in Occupational Therapy Service Access in the Initial Five Years Following Autism...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Timely occupational therapy (OT) is crucial for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Minority racial and ethnic groups may face barriers accessing healthcare services, including OT.
• Understanding disparities in OT access is vital for equitable care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine racial and ethnic disparities in occupational therapy (OT) access for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• To assess OT utilization in the initial five years following an ASD diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of electronic health records from a large pediatric health system (2014-2019).
• Inclusion of 1181 children diagnosed with ASD in 2014.
• Data collected on OT access, comorbid diagnoses, and social determinants of health.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in the odds of receiving OT between racial/ethnic groups were observed.
• Children from minority racial/ethnic backgrounds received significantly lower OT intensity (fewer visits).
• Hispanic, Black, and Asian/Pacific Islander children had fewer OT visits compared to non-Hispanic White children.

Conclusions:

• Children of minority race/ethnicity may experience reduced occupational therapy (OT) intensity post-ASD diagnosis.
• Potential barriers may hinder continued access to essential therapy services for these children.
• Findings highlight the need to address systemic inequities in healthcare access for children with ASD.