The study analyzed 2,298 patient records from between 2006 and 2009 collected by the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Outcomes included pain score, receipt of analgesics, analgesics for severe pain, narcotic analgesics, diagnostic tests, length of stay, 72-hour-return visits and admission.
Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to have a longer hospital stay than white patients. In addition, black patients and patients of “other” race with severe pain were less likely to receive a narcotic analgesic than non-Hispanic white patients, according to the study.
Researchers suggested that knowledge of racial disparities in pediatric care is vital for quality improvement.
More Articles on Quality:
Pediatric MRSA Rates Hold Study
12 Latest Findings on Infection Control
Researchers Develop Global Measure of Hospital Quality
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.