Socioeconomic Disparities Impact Concussion Healthcare Seeking Among Youth in Ontario

Recent research highlights significant socioeconomic disparities in how children and adolescents in Ontario access emergency care for concussions. The study, conducted by researchers from ICES, York University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and the University of Calgary, observed a notable increase in concussion-related emergency department (ED) visits across all age groups prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they found that youth from higher socioeconomic backgrounds were significantly more likely to visit the ED for concussion care compared to their lower socioeconomic counterparts.

Analyzing data from 2010 to 2020, the researchers identified that ED visits for concussion rose substantially, especially among older children and teens aged 10 to 19. The rates among the 10–14 age group increased from 350 to 737 per 100,000, while the 15–19 age group's rate grew from 382 to 872 per 100,000. Interestingly, children in the lowest socioeconomic status (SES) groups consistently showed lower ED utilization, with rates rising from 36.7 to 43.3 per 100,000, compared to 62.6 to 61.8 per 100,000 among children in the highest SES groups.

Despite many concussions being linked to organized sports—activities that might be less accessible to lower SES youth—the persistent socioeconomic gradient suggests other systemic barriers. Factors such as distance to hospitals, lack of awareness about concussion symptoms, and language or cultural barriers are likely contributing to these disparities.

The findings raise concerns about equitable access to concussion care and highlight the need for targeted policies. Dr. Alison Macpherson, the study's lead author, emphasizes the importance of addressing these inequities to ensure all youth receive appropriate care. Additionally, the study suggests that socioeconomic factors influence not only care access but also health outcomes, calling for more inclusive public health interventions.

While the research provides a comprehensive overview of concussion-related ED visits and socioeconomic influences, it also notes limitations. Some children may avoid emergency care altogether, opting for primary care or not seeking medical attention, which could underestimate true concussion incidence.

This study underscores the importance for policymakers, educators, coaches, and healthcare providers to recognize and bridge these gaps. Increasing awareness, improving access, and fostering culturally sensitive concussion education are crucial steps toward more equitable health outcomes for all youth in Ontario.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-underserved-youth-emergency-department-concussion.html