The impact of Medicare Advantage on oral health for older adults
Medicare Advantage and its Impact on Oral Health Equity among Older Adults
This study looks at how Medicare Advantage plans help older adults, especially those from different racial and ethnic backgrounds or who are facing financial challenges, get the dental care they need, and it aims to find ways to make sure everyone has fair access to dental services.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10842276 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Medicare Advantage (MA) plans affect access to dental care for older adults, particularly those from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds and economically disadvantaged groups. It aims to analyze whether these groups have equitable access to dental coverage and services compared to their counterparts. The study will assess the likelihood of these underserved populations receiving dental care and the types of dental services they utilize. By examining these disparities, the research seeks to understand how MA plans can improve oral health equity among seniors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, especially those from racial/ethnic minority backgrounds or with economic disadvantages.
Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in Medicare Advantage or those who do not require dental services may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to dental care for older adults, particularly those from underserved communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that improved dental coverage through Medicare Advantage can enhance access to dental services for older adults, suggesting a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weatherspoon, Darien Jerome — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Weatherspoon, Darien Jerome
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.