Socioeconomic Factors and Racial Disparities Influence Emergency Department Visits for Seizures

Recent research highlights how socioeconomic status and racial/ethnic disparities significantly impact the frequency of emergency department (ED) visits among individuals with seizure disorders. According to a study published online on July 5, 2025, in Epilepsia, a retrospective analysis of adult patients across four U.S. states revealed that those without private insurance—particularly individuals insured through Medicare, Medicaid, or those uninsured—are more prone to frequent ED visits for seizures. The study involved over 200,000 patients, with nearly 15% visiting the ED multiple times during the study period.

The findings indicate that insurance coverage plays a crucial role, with uninsured or publicly insured individuals showing nearly double the odds of repeated ED visits compared to those with private insurance. Racial disparities are also evident; Black patients are significantly more likely to have multiple ED visits than white patients, although this disparity diminishes somewhat among Black patients with Medicare or Medicaid.

Additionally, socioeconomic status influences ED utilization. Patients residing in low-income zip codes (bottom 25% of household income) are notably more likely to seek emergency care repeatedly. The researchers emphasize that systemic issues, such as poverty, healthcare costs, and systemic racism, underpin these disparities. They stress that addressing these root causes requires comprehensive, multisectoral approaches beyond healthcare alone.

Public health advocates and clinicians are encouraged to support systemic change by advocating for equitable policies and providing resources that target these systemic barriers for vulnerable populations.

For more information, see the original study in Epilepsia: Link.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-socioeconomic-disparities-contribute-frequent-ed.html