Citation

Anyigbo C, Jimenez ME, Sosnowski DW. J. Pediatr. 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.04.006

PMID

35427692

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) at age 5 and healthcare utilization (HCU) patterns at age 9. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a secondary analysis using longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Caregivers (N = 2,521) provided data on their child's ACEs at age 5 and 4 types of HCU at age 9: past-year well visits, dental visits, primary care sick visits for injury or illness, and emergency room visits. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between ACEs at age 5 and each type of HCU, adjusting for relevant sociodemographic covariates.

RESULTS: Among the 2,521 children (51% male, 48% Non-Hispanic Black), 77% had ≥1 ACE at age 5. Children with ≥4 ACEs had lower odds of a dental visit (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]:.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]:.29 -.91) and higher odds of a primary care sick visit (aOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.20 - 2.64) and emergency room visit (aOR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.11-2.59), compared with children with no reported ACEs.

CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate sub-optimal HCU patterns among families with ACEs and indicate a need for targeted interventions that support appropriate HCU for children who endure adversity.

Language: en

Keywords

adversity; child health services; healthcare use