Chronic Disease Spending and Health Outcomes in Puerto Rico
Author Information
Author(s): Matthew Campos, Maricruz Rivera-Hernandez
Primary Institution: Brown University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
There are disparities in chronic disease outcomes and care costs between Puerto Ricans on the island and those on the US mainland.
Conclusion
Puerto Rico has higher rates of diabetes and chronic kidney disease compared to the mainland, despite some improvements in Alzheimer's disease prevalence.
Supporting Evidence
- From 2015 to 2020, Alzheimer's disease prevalence in Puerto Rico decreased from 13% to 10%.
- Diabetes prevalence in Puerto Rico decreased from 46% to 40%.
- Chronic kidney disease prevalence in Puerto Rico increased from 21% to 33%.
- Diabetes rates in Puerto Rico are significantly higher than the national average.
- Chronic kidney disease rates in Puerto Rico are also higher than the national average.
- Average total spending per beneficiary for Alzheimer's disease in Puerto Rico was $13,037 compared to $20,678 nationally.
- Average total spending per beneficiary for diabetes in Puerto Rico was $11,363 compared to $15,525 nationally.
- Average total spending per beneficiary for chronic kidney disease in Puerto Rico was $13,181 compared to $18,376 nationally.
Takeaway
This study found that people in Puerto Rico have more diabetes and kidney problems than those in the mainland US, even though some Alzheimer's rates are getting better.
Methodology
Data from the Mapping Medicare Disparities Tool was used to assess chronic conditions and care costs from 2015 to 2020.
Limitations
Comparative data between Puerto Rico and the mainland is limited.
Participant Demographics
Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries in Puerto Rico and selected US states.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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