Systematic review of disparities in health care for individuals with autism spectrum disorders in the United States

Authors conducted a systematic review of the literature to determine whether differences exist for children with ASD versus children without ASD in the utilization, accessibility, and cost of their health care services. Population and outcome variables of interest were used to search for articles in Medline and PsycInfo databases. Thirteen studies comparing ASD and other groups of children without ASD were reviewed. A review of these publications revealed that children with ASD have higher health care utilization and costs, and worse access to care and medical homes. These results have implications for autism research and insurance policy to reduce health care utilization and costs, and ensure proper insurance coverage.

► Review 13 articles on health care utilization, costs, and access.
► Explore whether health care disparities exist between children with and without ASD.
► Children with ASD generally have higher health care utilization rates and costs.
► Children with ASD generally have worse access to care and medical homes.