Effects of Cost-Sharing on Users of a State's Health Service Program

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1982

Abstract

This study analyzed some of the effects of the introduction of cost-sharing on users of the state's health service program. The study population had previously received services at no charge and consisted of people with provider-determined medical need, and included, but was not limited to people in financial need. The study sample was selected from 3 years of program service records (1977-1980). Sampling was random and stratified by key variables. Time-series analysis as well as pre/post-policy comparisons were employed. Analysis of changes in the distributions of service user characteristics and in services provided indicated that use of services was not affected adversely and that lower-income, medically needy people were not deterred from using services following the introduction of cost-sharing. Limitations to the study are reviewed, and implications of using cost-sharing in programs such as Medicaid are considered.

Was this content written or created while at USF?

Yes

Citation / Publisher Attribution

Medical Care, v. 20, issue 12, p. 1178-1187

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