
Double Feature at the Orangerie
Section: Arts
A recent study has highlighted alarming statistics regarding the emergency department (ED) experiences of youth facing mental health crises. Conducted using data from 2018 to 2022, the research indicates that approximately one-third of pediatric patients admitted or transferred for mental health issues spend over 12 hours in the emergency room, with more than 12% waiting for over 24 hours.
The findings, published in the journal JACEP Open, reveal that a significant portion of these lengthy stays is associated with serious conditions, particularly suicidal ideation and aggressive behaviors. Specifically, it was found that 70% of children who remained in the ED for over 12 hours were there due to suicidal thoughts or attempts, while over half were admitted for aggressive behavior.
Lead researchers emphasize that the prolonged stays in emergency rooms for young individuals often stem from a lack of available psychiatric beds. Many adolescents seeking urgent mental health care are directed to adult hospitals, which frequently do not have the necessary pediatric resources to provide adequate support.
The study analyzed records from approximately 5.9 million mental health visits by children aged 5 to 17 across the United States, with 1.4 million of these leading to hospital admissions or transfers. It was noted that youth covered by public insurance were more likely to experience extended waits in the ED, underscoring significant disparities in access to mental health services.
Researchers pointed out that differences in reimbursement rates for psychiatric services, which are often lower for public insurance compared to private plans, may contribute to these inequities. To address these issues, experts are advocating for improved Medicaid reimbursement rates for pediatric mental health care and continuous funding for the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program, which trains non-pediatric hospitals in effective youth care.
Additionally, the study suggests several strategies to enhance access to mental health services for young people. These include expanding telehealth options, increasing mental health services in schools, and integrating mental health care into primary care settings. The emergence of psychiatric urgent care clinics and free-standing psychiatric emergency departments may also play a critical role in meeting the growing demand for mental health services among children and adolescents.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the ongoing challenges within the mental health care system for youth, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to ensure timely and appropriate care for this vulnerable population.
Section: Arts
Section: Arts
Section: Business
Section: News
Section: Business
Section: Arts
Section: Arts
Section: News
Section: Arts
Section: Arts
Health Insurance in Germany is compulsory and sometimes complicated, not to mention expensive. As an expat, you are required to navigate this landscape within weeks of arriving, so check our FAQ on PKV. For our guide on resources and access to agents who can give you a competitive quote, try our PKV Cost comparison tool.
Germany is famous for its medical expertise and extensive number of hospitals and clinics. See this comprehensive directory of hospitals and clinics across the country, complete with links to their websites, addresses, contact info, and specializations/services.
After eight years, Matze Hielscher, the host of the Hotel Matze podcast, reflects on an extensive guest list that spans the German media landscape. In over 300 conversations, he has engaged with personalities from journalism, science, politics, philosophy, sports, art, and music. Notable guests have...
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!