Top 5 Takeaways

1. Prevalence of Developmental Disabilities: Approximately 17.3% of U.S. children and adolescents aged 3–17 years had developmental disabilities (DDs) during 2014–2018.
2. Increased Health Service Use: Children with DDs were significantly more likely to take prescription medication, see mental health professionals, medical specialists, or special therapists, and receive special education or early intervention services compared to those without DDs.
3. Sociodemographic Variations: The use of health services and the prevalence of DDs varied across different sociodemographic groups, with notable disparities in access to care.
4. Impact of Early Identification: Early identification and increased access to intervention services can improve health outcomes and reduce the need for services later in life.
5. Policy Implications: Policies and programs need to address sociodemographic inequities to ensure early and equitable access to necessary care and services for children with DDs.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Mary E. Cogswell, mcogswell@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Cogswell ME, Coil E, Tian LH, et al. Health Needs and Use of Services Among Children with Developmental Disabilities — United States, 2014–2018. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:453–458. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7112a3

Summary

This report analyzes data from the 2014–2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) to assess the prevalence of developmental disabilities (DDs) among U.S. children and adolescents aged 3–17 years and their health needs and service use. The study found that 17.3% of children had DDs, with significant disparities in health service use and needs compared to children without DDs. The findings highlight the importance of early identification and access to intervention services to improve health outcomes and reduce future service needs.

Methods

The study used data from the NHIS, an annual survey of the noninstitutionalized U.S. civilian population. Data were collected through in-person interviews with parents of children aged 3–17 years, focusing on functional abilities, health needs, and use of services. Weighted prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and differences were evaluated using Rao-Scott chi-square tests. Analyses accounted for the complex sampling design using SAS and SUDAAN software.

Discussion

The analysis revealed that children with DDs have higher health needs and use more specialized services than those without DDs. Sociodemographic disparities in service use were observed, with non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds having less access to certain health services. The findings suggest that policies and programs should focus on early identification and equitable access to care to improve health outcomes for children with DDs.

Conclusion

Developmental disabilities are common among U.S. children, and those with DDs have greater health needs and service use. Early identification and coordinated care can improve health outcomes and reduce the need for services later in life. Addressing sociodemographic inequities is crucial to ensure all children with DDs have access to necessary care and services.

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