A recent study reveals alarming disparities in genetic testing access for children with neurological conditions, with Black children facing significantly higher barriers than their white counterparts. The research, published in the journal Neurology, sheds light on the complex interplay of factors contributing to this racial gap in pediatric healthcare.
Examining records of over 11,000 children seen at pediatric neurology outpatient clinics, researchers found that while neurologists requested genetic tests at similar rates for both Black and white children, Black children were nearly half as likely to complete these crucial tests. This disparity persisted even after accounting for factors such as socioeconomic status and urban or rural residence.
Insurance coverage emerged as a significant hurdle, with 23% of genetic test requests for Black children denied, compared to only 10% for white children. However, insurance type alone did not fully explain the gap, suggesting deeper systemic issues at play.
Dr. Jordan Janae Cole, the study’s lead author, emphasized the importance of addressing these inequities, stating, “We must ensure that efforts to improve access to genetic testing keep equity at the forefront, so they don’t worsen health disparities.”
The implications of this disparity are profound, as genetic testing plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating pediatric neurological disorders. Without access to these tests, Black children may face delays in diagnosis, missed treatment opportunities, and potentially poorer health outcomes.
This study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in healthcare access and delivery, particularly for minority communities. As the medical community grapples with these findings, the focus must remain on developing targeted interventions to eliminate barriers and ensure equitable access to genetic testing for all children.
See: “Systemic racism may play a role in genetic testing disparities, study suggests” (February 13, 2025)
