Frequency of Black and American Indian/Alaskan Native US Residents Screened for Firearm Access

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates Black and AIAN individuals’ self-reported history of being screened for firearm access by healthcare providers, and identifies factors that influence screening. Methods: A cross-sectional, nationally representative survey of included 3015 Black and 527 AIAN adults in the US. Participants were recruited via probability-based sampling. Results: Among Black participants, 13.1% and among AIAN participants, 18.4% reported being screened for firearm access. Of the participants who reported being screened, most have been by mental healthcare providers or primary care physicians. Factors associated with higher screening odds in Black adults included history of suicidal ideation or mental health treatment, current firearm access, younger age, and having children at home. For AIAN participants, a lifetime history of mental health treatment or identifying as female increased screening odds. Conclusion: Black adults report infrequently being screened for firearm access by healthcare providers. Identifying screening barriers and fostering discussions on firearm safety in healthcare settings are important next steps for firearm injury prevention efforts