Disparities in Pediatric Tele-Mental Health Services During COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Zhang Yunxi PhD, Lal Lincy S. PharmD, PhD, Lin Yueh-Yun PhD, Swint J. Michael PhD, Zhang Ying PhD, Summers Richard L. MD, Jones Barbara F. MBA, Chandra Saurabh MD, PhD, MBA, Ladner Mark E. MD
Primary Institution: University of Mississippi Medical Center
Hypothesis
This study aims to investigate the association between tele-mental health (TMH) utilization and sociodemographic factors and assess its associated healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and medical expenditures within a pediatric population in Mississippi.
Conclusion
The study reveals significant sociodemographic disparities in pediatric TMH utilization and highlights its role in increasing outpatient mental healthcare access while potentially reducing overall medical expenditures.
Supporting Evidence
- Tele-mental health services increased outpatient visits by 122% among users.
- Users of tele-mental health services had 36% higher medical expenditures related to mental health.
- Overall medical expenditures were 27% lower for tele-mental health users.
- Adolescents were more likely to utilize tele-mental health services compared to younger children.
- Black/African American patients were less likely to use tele-mental health services compared to White/Caucasian patients.
- Families with higher incomes were more likely to access tele-mental health services.
- Urban patients had higher tele-mental health utilization compared to rural patients.
- Access to technology and internet connectivity influenced tele-mental health service utilization.
Takeaway
This study shows that more kids are using online mental health services during the pandemic, but not all kids have the same access, especially those from poorer families.
Methodology
A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic health records of pediatric patients who accessed mental and behavioral health outpatient services from January 2020 to June 2023.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to excluding uninsured patients and those not consistently seeking care at the study institution.
Limitations
The findings may not represent the broader pediatric landscape across Mississippi as the study is confined to patients receiving care at a single academic medical center.
Participant Demographics
The study included 1,972 pediatric patients, predominantly Black/African American, with a majority covered by Medicaid and residing in urban areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.23, 1.50
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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