A study of childhood middle ear ventilation tube (VT) insertions in Auckland over the period 2009- 2018 has highlighted persistent ethnic disparities, with greatest impact on Pacific children. The overall rate of publicly funded VT insertions in children aged 0-4 years declined over the study period. In 2018, Asian and Pacific ethnic groups had the lowest rates of VT insertions in both the Counties Manukau District Health Board (CMDHB) and Auckland District Health Board (ADHB) areas, as well as nationally. VT insertion rates for Māori, Pacific and Asian children in CMDHB areas were less than half that of respective groups in ADHB areas. Children classified as NZ European/Other had the highest rates of VT insertions in CMDHB and nationally, but their rate was similar to that for Māori in ADHB areas. The study authors state that there may be a need for targeted middle ear screening for preschool children earlier than the 4-year-old Before School Check.
