Data from a recent HPIO policy brief shows that the rate of emergency department visits for suicide attempts among children with commercial health insurance is higher than those with other types of coverage, as illustrated above.

The data was included in HPIO’s December policy brief Access to Mental Health Care for Ohio Children and Youth, which found that many Ohio families are having trouble finding mental health care for their children. In 2024, 5,610 Ohio children had an ED visit for a suspected suicide attempt, with those with commercial insurance consistently showing high rates compared to children with Medicaid, other forms of insurance or those who self-paid.

Although there is variation across insurance plans, high costs of care, lack of provider availability and insurance coverage limitations are likely challenges faced by families with commercial insurance. The fourth and final brief in HPIO’s Ohio Child Mental Health Project will further explore barriers to care associated with insurance coverage and affordability. It is expected to be released next month.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org 24/7 for free and confidential support. Alternatively, any Ohioan under age 20 can access mobile response and stabilization services (MRSS), in which a team of trained professionals meets the child where they are within 60 minutes. MRSS is a free service for children statewide.