Half of Medicaid-enrolled children hospitalized or seen in the emergency department for suicidal thoughts or behaviors did not receive a follow-up visit within one week of discharge, according to a September report from HHS’ Office of Inspector General.
Here are five things to know:
- In 2023, almost 225,000 children ages 10-17 enrolled in Medicaid were hospitalized or visited an emergency department for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
- The study found that half of children did not received a follow-up visit within a week of discharge — a critical window for suicide prevention efforts.
- When follow-ups did occur most were conducted by counselors, social workers or psychiatrists, rather than primary care providers.
- Experts told the OIG that shortages of behavioral health providers and difficulty connecting families to care are key barriers to timely follow-up, the report said.
- The Office of Inspector General urges CMS to support low-performing state in improving access to suicide-related follow-up care for children.
Read the full report here.
