Use of Alternative Health Care Sites by Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Keenan Teresa, Komisar Harriet, Dean Olivia, Solway Erica, Lampkin Cheryl
Primary Institution: AARP, University of Michigan
Hypothesis
What are the experiences and opinions of US adults ages 50-80 regarding alternative health care sites?
Conclusion
A significant portion of older adults have used alternative health care sites, and many are likely to continue using them in the future.
Supporting Evidence
- 60% of adults ages 50-80 reported using an alternative site in the past two years.
- 47% used urgent care clinics, while 28% used retail clinics.
- 91% of those who visited an alternative site had a primary care provider.
- 71% of those with a PCP contacted them after visiting an alternative site.
- 44% visited alternative sites to avoid the hospital emergency department.
Takeaway
Many older adults are using places like urgent care and retail clinics for their health needs instead of going to the hospital.
Methodology
A national poll was conducted asking adults ages 50-80 about their use of alternative health care sites.
Limitations
The completion rate was 50%, which may affect the representativeness of the sample.
Participant Demographics
Adults ages 50-80, with a focus on those aged 50-64, women, and higher-income individuals.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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