Objectives. This study tested three hypotheses: 1) for both genders, the impact of non-financial barriers, financial barriers, and demographic characteristics on the probability of visiting a physician diminish as the control for health becomes more detailed; 2) gender differences in the non-financial, financial, and demographic characteristics diminish when the control for health becomes more detailed and sophisticated; and 3) gender differences in the likelihood of visiting a physician occur for only particular diseases and disorders.
Study Design. Data were extracted from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 1996 (MEPS). Non-financial barriers, financial barriers and demographic characteristics were used to explain the probability of visiting a physician during 1996. Three model specifications were used: one not controlling for health, one controlling for the number of diseases or conditions, and one controlling for over two hundred diseases and disorders classified by Clinical Classification Software (AHRQ). Logistic estimations were made using male and female subsamples, respectively.
Principal Findings. Education and waiting time were significant for males. Income was found to be significant for females but not for males. With more detailed control for health, gender differences in the effects of independent variables on the dependent variable diminished. Of 145 diseases and disorders, twelve were found to demonstrate gender differences.
Conclusion. Gender differences in access as measured by having a physician visit, are more likely associated with health rather than barriers to care and demographic factors. Better control for health status is crucial to identifying gender differences and correlates of access to care.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1) Identify the impact of gender differences on non-financial and financial barriers in determining access to physician services. 2) Recognize that gender differences occur for only particular diseases and disorders. 3) Recognize that gender differences in the non-financial, financial, and demographic characteristics diminish when the control for health becomes more detailed and sophisticated.
Keywords: Access and Services, Gender
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.