Exploring the association of dual use of the VHA and Medicare with mortality: separating the contributions of inpatient and outpatient services

2007

Impact of Using Both VHA and Medicare on Veteran Mortality

Sample size: 1521 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wolinsky Fredric D, An Hyonggin, Liu Li, Miller Thomas R, Rosenthal Gary E

Primary Institution: Center for Research in the Implementation of Innovative Strategies in Practice (CRIISP), the Iowa City VA Medical Center

Hypothesis

Does dual use of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Medicare affect mortality rates among older veterans?

Conclusion

Dual use of VHA and Medicare is associated with an increased risk of mortality among older veterans.

Supporting Evidence

59% of the men in the study were veterans.
50% of the sample died during the follow-up period.
Dual use based on both inpatient and outpatient services increased mortality risk by 98%.

Takeaway

Older veterans who use both the VHA and Medicare may be at a higher risk of dying because their care isn't well coordinated.

Methodology

The study analyzed survey, claims, and National Death Index data from 1,521 men who were Medicare beneficiaries, using proportional hazards regression.