This study aimed to examine associations between child maltreatment and health service use, both overall, by type and by the number of types of maltreatment reported.

A total of 8503 participants completed the survey. Respondents who had experienced child maltreatment were significantly more likely than those who had not to report a hospital admission during the preceding twelve months, particularly admission with a mental disorder. The likelihood of six or more visits to general practitioners or of a consultation with a mental health nurse, psychologist, or psychiatrist were each higher for people who reported maltreatment during childhood. People who reported three or more maltreatment types were generally most likely to report greater health service use.

Child maltreatment has a major impact on health service use. Early, targeted interventions are vital, not only for supporting children directly, but also for their longer term wellbeing and reducing their health system use throughout life.