National distribution of child and adolescent psychiatrists

Objective: To describe the national distribution of child and adolescent psychiatrists by state, community, and youth population. Method: Data on child and adolescent psychiatrists were compiled for states and counties and compared by state, county characteristics, number of youth, percentage of youth living in poverty, and child and adolescent psychiatry residents. Results: The number of child and adolescent psychiatrists per 100,000 youth varied greatly by state and county. Child and adolescent psychiatrists were significantly more likely to be located in metropolitan counties and counties with a low percentage of children living in poverty. The distribution of child and adolescent psychiatrists was not significantly related to the distribution of child and adolescent psychiatry residency training programs. Conclusions: The shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists is accentuated for nonmetropolitan areas and youth at greatest risk for mental disorders by the current pattern of distribution.