Geographic Variation in Preventable Hospitalizations among US Children with Autism

There is a limited amount of research on geographic differences in preventable hospitalizations for ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSCs) among children with autism. The purpose this study was to examine US regional potentially hospital admissions pediatric inpatients diagnosed Hospital discharge data six were obtained from the 2016–2019 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) under Agency Healthcare Research and Quality. Geographic autism examined by census regions divisions. Multiple logistic regression analyses conducted child clinical characteristics associated ACSCs hospitalization across four regions; dependent variable likelihood hospitalization. Additionally, further explored variation racial ethnic groups each region or division. Of 138,305 autistic aged 2–17 years, about 10% had primary diagnosis related ACSCs. results showed that highest proportion occurred middle Atlantic division northeast region. Racial observed all regions, particularly south regions. Black more likely be hospitalized compared White three Our highlight significant disparities avoidable Examining could inform policy practice while gaining better understanding patients where their families access health services. findings may help policymakers identify intervention needed tackle inequities accessibility quality US. Further studies detailed investigation are recommended understand mechanisms underlying these disparities, formulate effective practices considering unique needs challenges underserved