Data used in HPIO’s recent policy brief on child mental health in Ohio shows that in 2022-2023, among Ohio children needing mental health treatment, 38% found it somewhat or very difficult to access treatment (as displayed above). Data also shows more difficulty among individuals with private (i.e., commercial) insurance.

”Children with commercial insurance and young children were two groups commonly mentioned by subject matter experts as frequently experiencing challenges accessing mental health care,” the brief stated.

This brief focuses on access to mental healthcare services across levels of care. As part of the release, HPIO also released a community voice spotlight on parent and caregiver experiences with barriers to child and youth mental health care.

It is the third of four planned policy briefs in HPIO’s Ohio Child Mental Health Project.