Unmet Social Determinants of Health Contribute to Barriers in Autism Spectrum Disorder Care

Strategic Insights -

A recent study from the University of Texas Health Science Center Houston has shed light on the significant role unmet social determinants of health (SDOH) play in hindering healthcare access and support for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The research found that unmet SDOH needs are prevalent among children with ASD, particularly during early childhood. The study's findings emphasize the need for pediatric primary care programs to be tailored to address the unique needs of families affected by ASD.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study discovered that unmet SDOH needs are a significant barrier to healthcare access and support for children with ASD, affecting approximately 70% of children with a positive Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT) or ASD diagnosis.
  • The most common unmet SDOH needs among children with ASD include housing instability, food insecurity, and lack of access to healthcare services.
  • The study suggests that pediatric primary care programs should focus on addressing the specific needs of families affected by ASD, including housing and food insecurity, to improve healthcare access and support.
  • The researchers found a strong association between unmet SDOH needs and poor health outcomes, including increased hospitalizations and emergency department visits, among children with ASD.
  • The study's authors recommend that healthcare providers use a family-centered approach to address the unique needs of families affected by ASD, including incorporating SDOH into standard care practices.

Statistics:

  • 70% of children with a positive MCHAT or ASD diagnosis experienced unmet SDOH needs.
  • The most common unmet SDOH needs among children with ASD were:

+ Housing instability (55.6%)

+ Food insecurity (45.5%)

+ Lack of access to healthcare services (43.2%)

  • Children with unmet SDOH needs were 3.56 times more likely to experience poor health outcomes, including increased hospitalizations and emergency department visits.
  • The study's findings highlight the need for pediatric primary care programs to be tailored to address the unique needs of families affected by ASD.

Sources:

  • A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Needs in Early Childhood Among Children at Risk and Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2025.
  • University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Center for Health Equity. (Source: University of Texas Health Science Center Houston, 2025)
  • NewsRx. Reports on Autism Spectrum Disorders from University of Texas Health Science Center Houston Provide New Insights [A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Needs in Early Childhood Among Children at Risk and ...]. Pediatrics Week. November 1, 2025; p 789.