Adverse Childhood Experiences and Utilization and forgoing of Health Care among Children: A Nationally Representative Study in the United States

Little is known about the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on delaying health care. Using data from the 2016-2017 National Survey of Children's Health (n = 64,103), we examined the association between ACEs and forgoing: medical care, hearing care, vision care, mental health care, and use of health services. In logistic regression models, cumulative ACEs were associated with increases in forgoing most types of care. ACEs were associated with increased odds of using emergency department services and preventative health care. Efforts must be undertaken to reduce delays in care among children with a history of ACEs.