Health Policy Research Update
Consistent levels of access to care for Medicaid beneficiaries in rural and urban areas might reflect Medicaid's coverage mandates, compared with private insurance plans for low-income adults, which usually provide fewer benefits and have higher copayments and deductibles, according to a study in the Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved.
The study found that although Medicaid beneficiaries in general have more limited access to medical care, access is more consistent across rural and urban areas.
Researchers called on policymakers to address remaining coverage gaps in Medicaid -- especially concerning dental care.
This week's Health Policy Research Update also includes:
- A study examining Medi-Cal beneficiaries' preferences for benefit changes; and
- Analysis of a San Francisco school lunch nutrition program.