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Trends in perceived cost as a barrier to medical care, 1991-1996.

D E Nelson, B L Thompson, S D Bland and R Rubinson

Division of Adult and Community Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Ga. 30341-3717, USA. den2@cdc.gov

OBJECTIVES: This study examined trends in perceived cost as a barrier to medical care. METHODS: The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System was used to analyze monthly telephone survey data from 45 states. RESULTS: Overall, the percentage of persons perceiving cost as a barrier to medical care increased from 1991 until early 1993 and then declined to baseline values in late 1996. Perceived cost was a greater barrier in 1996 than in 1991 for persons with low incomes and for those who were unemployed and uninsured. For self-employed persons, percentages increased until mid-1993 and then remained constant. CONCLUSIONS: Further efforts are needed to improve access to medical care for socially disadvantaged populations.