Why are there sometimes different estimates of CSHCN in different surveys?
Both the NS-CSHCN and NSCH surveys use the same CSHCN Screener but apply and administer it differently. We at the Data Resource Center think this difference leads to a more concentrated/robust group of CSHCN for the NS-CSHCN and a larger group of CSHCN for the NSCH. So, if you encounter a discrepancy in CSHCN prevalence when comparing our surveys, you may attribute the variation to the fact that the NS-CSHCN represents a more needy group of CSHCN and the NSCH captures more of CSHCN who are CSHCN but might have less severe issues (what some call the Gray Area cases). Read more about the variation across surveys in CSHCN prevalence in this article from the Maternal Child Health Journal.