Health care disparities in emergency department visits for mental health disorders

Mental health disorders are a leading cause of emergency department (ED) visits in the US. Unaddressed mental health problems can have a negative influence on society due to homelessness, poverty, unemployment, safety, and other issues. They may also impact the ability of children and youth to succeed in school, impact quality of life and increase health care costs. A total of 2,770 patients presenting with mental health related conditions, meeting the criteria of psychotic disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and other (ICD-10 code: F20-41) were extracted from the 2018 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care (NHAMCS) survey. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and Chi square tests and ANOVA with alpha significance level at 0.05. The visits to the ED for mental health were affected by various demographic factors, including age, race, region, and method of payments. The findings of the study have critical policy and public health implications. The results can aid hospitals and policy makers in addressing the critical health care issue facing our society.