Utility shut-off protection letters were requested more frequently by families with public insurance and those with Black and Hispanic children, consistent with national studies of energy insecurity. Less frequent letter requests by non-English speaking families raise concerns for inequitable access to letters, and the finding of frequent repeat requests underscores the often-chronic nature of energy insecurity. These findings highlight the need for more equitable and sustainable approaches to energy insecurity within pediatric primary care and exploration of policy interventions, such as common applications for Medicaid and energy assistance programs, to support those at high risk for energy insecurity.
Paz et al. (Fri,) studied this question.