Access to healthcare is fundamental to ensuring children’s health and well-being, yet disparities in healthcare access continue to exist.[1] This is particularly true when the financial state of the family is considered. Research highlights how economic factors and social inequalities significantly impact the availability and quality of healthcare services for children.1 This article will synthesize key findings from previous studies that elaborate on the intricate relationship between family finances and access to healthcare.
Family finances influence access to healthcare for children, with socioeconomic disparities affecting the quality and frequency of medical services received.1 Moller and colleagues’ research highlights how lower-income families face systemic obstacles that affect their children’s healthcare experiences.1 Lower-income families may be more likely to experience gaps in care due to the inability to afford regular visits, preventive services, or follow-up treatments.1 These disparities can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased emergency room visits as a result of lower immunity to illness and injury, further straining the already limited financial resources of these families.[2] Studies reveal that as families face the stress of limited resources, it can affect parents’ mental health and family dynamics, ultimately impacting the child’s well-being.2 This financial burden is heightened by a lack of comprehensive insurance coverage and inadequate financial support for chronic disease management, highlighting a critical area where policy changes and support systems are needed.
Not only have disparities been found in general healthcare access, but research has also revealed a significant gap in the accessibility to mental health services for children.[3] Mahmood and colleagues suggest that this could be heavily influenced by family income and socioeconomic status.3 Children from lower-income families are less likely to receive adequate and timely mental health care compared to their higher-income peers.3 This disparity is attributed to a combination of factors including limited financial resources, lack of insurance coverage, and reduced availability of services in economically-disadvantaged areas. Financial constraints not only hinder access to mental health professionals but also impact the quality of care received. For instance, families with limited financial means may struggle with the costs of therapy and medications, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment for conditions such as anxiety and depression.2
The relationship between access to healthcare and family finances is a complex and critical issue affecting children’s health outcomes. Socioeconomic disparities significantly impact the quality and consistency of healthcare services available to children, with profound effects on mental health services and general healthcare. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach, including policy changes and the innovation/creation of support systems designed to alleviate financial pressures on families and improve access to necessary services.
Takeaways
1. Seek and Utilize Available Resources. Parents should be proactive in seeking out financial assistance programs, community health resources, and insurance options that can help cover medical expenses. Such support can be offered for mental health services, chronic conditions, and general healthcare needs, which can alleviate some of the financial burdens.
2. Advocate for Comprehensive Insurance Coverage. Parents can advocate for better insurance coverage for mental health services and chronic condition management. Engaging with policymakers and participating in community health initiatives can help push for broader insurance reforms and more inclusive support systems.
3. Create a Support Network. Building a support network with other parents facing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice. Sharing experiences and resources can help families navigate the complexities of managing healthcare costs and accessing services.
References:
[1] Møller, S.P., Willson, A., & Thygesen, L.C., (2023). Social inequalities in trajectories of contacts with the healthcare system in adolescence and young adulthood. Preventive Medicine, 177. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2023.107745
[2] Eshtehardi, S. S., Anderson, B. J., Cao, V. T., McKinney, B. M., Thompson, D. I., Marrero, D. G., & Hilliard, M. E. (2021). On the money: Parental perspectives about finances and type 1 diabetes in youth. Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology, 9(4), 340-350. https://doilrog/10.1037/cpp0000371
[3] Mahmood, A., Kedia, S., Arshad, H., Mou, X., & Dillon, P. J. (2024). Disparities in Access to Mental Health Services Among Children Diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression in the United States. Community Mental Health Journal. https://doi-org.byu.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/s10597-024-01305-3