An analysis of children enrolled in the Growing Up in New Zealand longitudinal study cohort has revealed ethnic disparities in the proportion of those experiencing barriers to seeing a GP, and increased rates of hospitalisation among those who have experienced barriers. A total of 5947 children who were aged 24 months in 2011/12 and 54 months in 2013/14 were included in the analysis. Overall, 4.7% of children had experienced barriers to seeing a GP in the year to 24 months and 5.5% in the year to 54 months. Barriers were more prevalent among Māori and Pacific children at each age, compared with New Zealand European children. Children facing barriers in the year to age 24 months were twice as likely to be hospitalised in the year to 54 months (odds ratio 2.18; 95% CI 1.38-3.44). When analysed by ethnicity, there was a strong association for Māori children (odds ratio 2.92; 95% CI 1.60-5.30) but no association for New Zealand European children. The study authors concluded that changes to the health system, and future health policy, must align with the New Zealand government’s obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, to ensure that health equity becomes a reality for Māori.
