Children With Special Health Care Needs: An Analysis of National Survey of Children’s Health Database

Abstract

BackgroundChildren with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) represent a diverse pediatric population requiring healthcare services beyond typical childhood needs. This study analyzes data from the 2016-2020 National Survey of Children's Health Database to elucidate demographic patterns, prevalence rates, and nuanced factors influencing the health and well-being of CSHCN. MethodsThis retrospective observational study focuses on children aged 0-17 who are identified as CSHCN based on Maternal and Child Health Bureau criteria. A comprehensive analysis of the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) database examines key variables, including health outcomes, healthcare utilization, parental-reported health status, and socio-demographic factors. Stratified random sampling ensures national representation. ResultsThe study encompassed 40,335 patients, revealing that 14.6% (CI: 14.0-15.3, n=6,445) of CSHCN received care in a well-functioning system.