How Medicare Advantage affects healthcare use and patient outcomes
The Effects of Medicare Advantage on Healthcare Use and Patient Outcomes
This study looks at how Medicare Advantage plans affect the way patients use healthcare services and their overall health compared to regular Medicare, focusing on changes in enrollment and how these plans manage care, so if you're considering switching to an MA plan, this research could help you understand what to expect.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11053603 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of Medicare Advantage (MA) plans on healthcare utilization and patient outcomes compared to traditional Medicare. It focuses on changes in enrollment patterns and how these plans manage healthcare services, including the use of telemedicine and provider networks. By analyzing data from seven states that shifted from traditional Medicare to mandatory MA plans, the study aims to understand both the potential efficiencies and risks associated with these plans. Patients enrolled in MA may experience different healthcare outcomes based on the financial incentives and management strategies of their plans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Medicare beneficiaries, particularly those enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.
Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in Medicare Advantage or those who do not qualify for Medicare may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how Medicare Advantage affects patient care and outcomes, potentially guiding policy changes that enhance healthcare delivery for beneficiaries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of Medicare Advantage compared to traditional Medicare, indicating that this area is still evolving and warrants further investigation.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huckfeldt, Peter — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Huckfeldt, Peter
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.