Study finds more return visits to emergency departments for mental health crises among Aboriginal and poor children
First Nations children and those from families receiving government subsidies had more return visits to emergency departments for mental health crises than other socioeconomic groups, says a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
The study revealed that more First Nations children presented to emergency departments for disorders secondary to substance abuse and intentional self-harm than other children, and that, compared with other children, First Nations children returned more quickly to the emergency department and had a longer time before visiting a physician in the post-crisis period.
Emergency departments are often the first access point for children with mental health issues who have not received care previously or are in crisis. Although some U.S. research has shown a relationship between race, ethnic background and socioeconomic status and more emergency department visits, there is little Canadian information on the topic.
We speak with Patrick McGrath, a professor of psychology, pediatrics and psychiatry, who was one of the researchers involved in the study.
RELATED | Read the full study online in PDF format |
