A cross-sectional analysis of prescription medication use by children the implications and impact of acculturation

Hispanic children in the United States experience significant disparities in health care access and prescription medication use compared to white children, with variation by level of acculturation. This study examined differences in socio‑demographic factors and medication use among Hispanic children stratified by language of interview, using 2004 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data. Multivariable analyses showed that both English‑ and Spanish‑interviewed Hispanic children had lower overall prescription use than white children, largely explained by access to care and perceived health needs. However, disparities in psychiatric medication use persisted among less acculturated, Spanish‑interviewed Hispanic children. These findings highlight the importance of acculturation in understanding and addressing pediatric medication disparities.