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Clinic access and teenage birth rates: Racial/ethnic and spatial disparities in Houston, TX

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  • Wisniewski, Megan M.
  • O'Connell, Heather A.

Abstract

Teenage motherhood is a pressing issue in the United States, and one that is disproportionately affecting racial/ethnic minorities. In this research, we examine the relationship between the distance to the nearest reproductive health clinic and teenage birth rates across all zip codes in Houston, Texas. Our primary data come from the Texas Department of State Health Services. We use spatial regression analysis techniques to examine the link between clinic proximity and local teenage birth rates for all females aged 15 to 19, and separately by maternal race/ethnicity. We find, overall, limited support for a connection between clinic distance and local teenage birth rates. However, clinics seem to matter most for explaining non-Hispanic white teenage birth rates, particularly in high-poverty zip codes. The racial/ethnic and economic variation in the importance of clinic distance suggests tailoring clinic outreach to more effectively serve a wider range of teenage populations. We argue social accessibility should be considered in addition to geographic accessibility in order for clinics to help prevent teenage pregnancy.

Suggested Citation

  • Wisniewski, Megan M. & O'Connell, Heather A., 2018. "Clinic access and teenage birth rates: Racial/ethnic and spatial disparities in Houston, TX," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 201(C), pages 87-94.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:201:y:2018:i:c:p:87-94
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.02.009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. White, K. & Hopkins, K. & Aiken, A.R.A. & Stevenson, A. & Hubert, C. & Grossman, D. & Potter, J.E., 2015. "The impact of reproductive health legislation on family planning clinic services in Texas," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 105(5), pages 851-858.
    2. Goldthwaite, L.M. & Duca, L. & Johnson, R.K. & Ostendorf, D. & Sheeder, J., 2015. "Adverse birth outcomes in Colorado: Assessing the impact of a statewide initiative to prevent unintended pregnancy," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 105(9), pages 60-66.
    3. Foster, D.G. & Klaisle, C.M. & Blum, M. & Bradsberry, M.E. & Brindis, C.D. & Stewart, F.H., 2004. "Expanded state-funded family planning services: Estimating pregnancies averted by the family PACT program in California, 1997-1998," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 94(8), pages 1341-1346.
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