San Francisco, California – UCLA researchers report that a significant number of California children with mental health issues are left untreated.
Access to Treatment
The study conducted at the Univeristy of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) indicated that only quarter of the 300,000 of California children with mental health issues receive treatment properly. Children with mental health needs are aged between 4 and 11. The study also revealed that 95% of the children have medical insurance. However, there are certain barriers in accessing their medical treatment, said Doctor Imelda Padilla-Frausto, lead author of the study. A shortage of urgent care clinics and health care providers in the children’s respective areas is one of the identified reasons. Moreover, the parents’ limited proficiency in the English language keeps the kids from getting their mental treatment. Parents who are non-proficient in the language are having difficulties in navigating the complex health care system, Frausto added.
Early Childhood Intervention
An early childhood intervention has been a very crucial step in dealing with the mental health needs of children. This step can be considered as an urgent care near me facility for the kids. Also, this has been a very consistent reminder from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). An early childhood intervention can help in reducing or preventing the severity of such condition among children, because the initial symptoms of mental issues manifest during childhood or adolescence. Frausto emphasized that early assessment will help in identifying signs, and then an opportunity to intervene. Urgent care is necessary so as to prevent more serious conditions that could occur later on.
Prevailing Conditions
Emotional and behavioral mental health issues areprevalent among children, the researchers noted. The findings, based on the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) also indicated that parents with mental disorders were more likely to have children with similar chronic condition than those without mental health needs. Frausto also stated that an extensive mental health screening among children is crucial, considering their physical conditions as well. The researchers found out that more boys had mental health needs than girls, and physical conditions are likewise associated with mental disorders.
Greatest Barrier
Dr. Frausto noted that the greatest barrier in getting proper treatment is the humiliation associated with mental illness. An urgent care clinic and patient-centered health facilities can help children in overcoming such factor. Frausto added that several community clinics are transforming into such kind of medical homes. These facilities will not only treat mental health issues, but also integrate dental, vision, and medical care to manage wide array disorders.
