U.S. Short on Child Psychiatrists

Despite increases in the number of child psychiatrists over the past 10 years, 70% of U.S. counties still have none.

Many U.S. children have mental health diagnoses, but fewer than half receive treatment from a mental health professional, due in part to shortages of child psychiatrists.

To examine trends in child psychiatrist availability, investigators analyzed data from the Area Health Resource Files between 2007 to 2016 in all U.S. states and counties. Child psychiatrist availability by county was linked with other county statistics such as number of children, income levels, parent educational levels, and racial/ethnic makeup.

During the 10-year period, the number of child psychiatrists increased 21% (from 6590 to 7991), representing an increase from about 8 per 100,000 children in 2007 to 9.75 in 2016. However, the increase was uneven across locations. …

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

U.S. Short on Child Psychiatrists

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Reviewing Author