Disability and unmet need for health care in Canada: Findings from the Canadian Community Health Survey

Background: People with disabilities may experience disparities in access, quality, and outcomes of care compared to those without disabilities. However, there is limited Canadian evidence on the level of unmet need for care in this population. Objective: This study investigated the level of unmet health needs in the Canadian population, with and without disabilities, as well as the factors associated with unmet needs, using a nationally representative survey. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (n = 60,995) to examine self-reported unmet need for health care in the last 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between unmet needs, disability status, sociodemographic characteristics, and having a regular primary care provider. Results: Individuals with a disability were over four times more likely to report unmet health care needs than those without a disability, after adjusting for sociodemographic factors. The most common reason for unmet needs was poor availability of care, including long wait times and gaps in regional care. Having a regular care provider significantly reduced the likelihood of having unmet health care needs; however, disability status remained an independent determinant of unmet need. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for targeted policy initiatives to reduce health care access disparities among individuals with disabilities. Improving the availability and timely provision of care that is responsive to the specific needs of this population may help address unmet needs.