The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48712

Jon M. Thompson, PhD¹, Steven W. Evans, PhD², and Elizabeth M. Dahmus, MSN, RN². (1) Department of Health Sciences, James Madison University, MSC 4301, 3134 HHS Building, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, 540/568-3472, thompsjm@jmu.edu, (2) Department of Psychology, James Madison University, MSC 1902, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Access to health care continues to be a major problem for many children and youth, particularly for minority and low income families. Prior studies have shown that utilization of services, and ultimately health status, are directly impacted by access to care (Hahn and Flood, 1995). Access to care is influenced by the existence of barriers to care, which can be either direct barriers (e.g., lack of insurance) or indirect barriers (e.g., language, geography, lack of knowledge, getting time off work, etc.) (Fraser,1997). This paper presents results of a study of barriers to care for children in three geographic areas of a large mid-Atlantic state. A representative, random sample of households was surveyed (n=450) using a detailed questionnaire that addressed children's health problems, utilization of services, and parent/guardian perceived barriers to care. Surveys were distributed through local public schools. Findings show variation in the existence of health problems and use of services. In addition, findings show variation in barriers to care that affect children's use of medical, mental health and dental services. Of particular interest are the differences in barriers for children that are related to care seeking for medical, mental health and dental services, and the health status and social factors that are associated with the barriers for these services. Implications for service delivery are discussed, and suggestions for reducing barriers to care for children are identified.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to

• Understand direct and indirect barriers to care for children.
• Identify how barriers differ for medical, mental health and dental services.
• Demonstrate an understanding of ways providers can address barriers in order to improve the delivery of services to children.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This research was funded by the Commonwealth Health Research Board, Richmond, Virginia. The findings and interpretation of findings, however, are solely those of the authors based on the research.