Diabetes is the sixth-leading cause of death by disease in the U.S. and it is associated with high rates of health services utilization and expenditures. The burden of diabetes has not been borne equally by all groups in this country. Racial and ethnic minorities, especially among the elderly, have been disproportionately affected by diabetes. An estimated 10.8% of African-Americans have diabetes compared to 5.2% for the general population. The prevalence of NIDDM is two times higher in Hispanics than non-Hispanic whites. Further research is needed to examine the factors associated with racial differentials in the use of services and to explain these continued racial and ethnic disparities. This analysis will examine utilization and expenditures for health services for people with diabetes using data from the 1996 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). In this study we will present national estimates of medical visits, individual expenditures, and source of payment for people with diabetes compared to the rest of the population. Particular attention will be given to racial and ethnic differences. We will also examine changes over time in patterns of spending for medical services using data from previous surveys in addition to the 1996 MEPS. Findings of this study will provide a better understanding of the trends in service utilization and costs for people with diabetes. Its focus on comparisons between racial and ethnic groups is particularly important, since the elimination of disparities in the burden of diabetes is one of the identified goals of national health policy.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Compare expenditures for medical services for people with diabetes across different racial groups. 2. Identify trends in the burden of diabetes over time. 3. Evaluate access to medical care for Blacks and Hispanics with diabetes
Keywords: Diabetes, Minority Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.