The Gerontologist · 2014 · 41 citations · 27 references
Public AffairsHealth PolicyHealth Services AdministrationGeriatric CareGeriatricsTransportationAgeism In Health CareHealth Care AccessibilityMedicaidTransportation AccessTransportation Policy For Older AdultsAge-related Utilization PatternsDelayed Care SeekingHealth Care Utilization BarriersLogistic RegressionNonemergency Medical TransportationPatient-reported Functional StatusService AvailabilityTransportation For Older Adults
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: This study identified factors associated with canceling nonemergency medical transportation appointments among older adult Medicaid patients. DESIGN AND METHODS: Data from 125,913 trips for 2,913 Delaware clients were examined. Mediation analyses, as well as, multivariate logistic regressions were conducted. RESULTS: Over half of canceled trips were attributed to client reasons (e.g., no show, refusal). Client characteristics (e.g., race, sex, functional status) were associated with cancelations; however, these differed based on the cancelation reason. Regularly scheduled trips were less likely to be canceled. IMPLICATIONS: The evolving American health care system may increase service availability. Additional policies can improve service accessibility and overcome utilization barriers.
27