Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 10, 2026

A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers
08:33

A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers

Published on: January 5, 2024

The Relationship Between Children with Special Health Care Needs, Chronic Pain, and Unmet Health Care Needs

Maykala J Williams1, Chantel C Burkitt1,2, Rhonda G Cady1

  • 1Gillette Children's, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA.

Population Health Management
|July 9, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Children with special health care needs (SHCN) experience more chronic pain and unmet health care needs. Addressing access to pediatric pain management is crucial for improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Pain Management
  • Health Services Research

Background:

  • Children with special health care needs (SHCN) often face disparities in healthcare access and quality.
  • Chronic pain is a significant comorbidity linked to poorer functioning and increased healthcare use.
  • Limited research exists on the intersection of chronic pain, SHCN, and unmet healthcare needs in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of chronic pain in children with SHCN.
  • To examine the association between chronic pain, SHCN, and unmet healthcare needs.
  • To identify barriers contributing to unmet healthcare needs in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Secondary analysis of the 2022 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH).
  • Inclusion of 52,713 participants aged 0-17.
  • Assessment of SHCN status, chronic pain, and unmet healthcare needs, with adjustments for demographic and socioeconomic factors.

Main Results:

  • Children with SHCN had a higher prevalence of chronic pain (14.0%) compared to those without (3.2%).
  • Chronic pain was associated with greater odds of unmet healthcare needs, with the highest odds in children with both SHCN and chronic pain.
  • Key barriers included appointment availability, service accessibility, and office hours.

Conclusions:

  • Children with SHCN are disproportionately affected by chronic pain, exacerbating unmet healthcare needs.
  • Healthcare access and service availability are primary barriers.
  • Improving access to pediatric pain management services is essential to reduce disparities and enhance health outcomes.

Keywords:
children with special health care needschronic painhealth care accessunmet needs

Related Concept Videos

Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care01:29

Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care

The management of chronic pancreatitis is multifaceted, involving a comprehensive approach that includes thorough assessment, diagnostic testing, and a variety of management strategies.
Assessment:
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction01:24

Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction

The pancreas, an elongated and flat gland situated behind the stomach, serves a vital function in digesting food and managing blood sugar levels.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Analgesia and Pain Management01:25

Analgesia and Pain Management

Pain is critical to various clinical pathologies, provoking an urgent need for effective management. Pain, whether acute or chronic, is a complex neurochemical process. Its alleviation depends on the type, with nonopioid analgesics effective for mild to moderate pain, such as musculoskeletal or inflammatory pain, while neuropathic pain responds best to anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, or serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. For severe acute or chronic pain, opioids may be...
Stress and Mental Health01:30

Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model01:15

Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model

The case management model is a multidisciplinary approach that involves healthcare professionals from diverse disciplines, such as physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and pharmacists, working collaboratively to address the various needs of patients. Each healthcare professional brings unique expertise and perspectives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and tailoring treatment plans accordingly.
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management01:30

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management

Nursing management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is crucial for providing thorough care and support to patients. Nurses play an integral role in this process through detailed assessment, careful planning, targeted interventions, and ongoing evaluation. Here's an overview of the critical steps in nursing management for COPD.
Assessment