How Medicaid expansion affects mortality rates in rural areas of the U.S.

The impact of Medicaid expansion on the rural mortality penalty in the United States

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10726695

This study looks at how expanding Medicaid affects death rates from preventable health issues in rural areas, especially for adults aged 19-64, and aims to find ways to improve healthcare access and policies for these communities.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10726695 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of Medicaid expansion on mortality rates in rural areas of the United States, particularly focusing on preventable causes of death such as metabolic and cardiovascular issues, alcohol use, and mental health. By analyzing data on mortality rates among adults aged 19-64, the study aims to understand how access to healthcare through Medicaid has influenced these rates, especially among different demographic groups. The research will also explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural and urban mortality dynamics. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved healthcare policies and access in rural communities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 19-64 living in rural areas of the United States.

Not a fit: Patients living in urban areas or those outside the age range of 19-64 may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better healthcare policies that reduce preventable deaths in rural populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that Medicaid expansion can improve health outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

University Park, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.