Access to care for the uninsured: Is access to a physician enough?

Abstract

Objectives. This study examined a private-sector, statewide program (Kentucky Physicians Care) of care for uninsured indigent persons regarding provision of preventive services. Methods. A survey was conducted of a stratified random sample of 2509 Kentucky adults (811 with private insurance, 849 Medicaid recipients, 849 Kentucky Physicians Care recipients). Results. The Kentucky Physicians Care group had significantly lower rates of receipt of preventive services. Of the individuals in this group, 52% cited cost as the primary reason for not receiving mammography, and 38% had not filled prescribed medicines in the previous year. Conclusions. Providing free access to physicians fills important needs but is not sufficient for many uninsured patients to receive necessary preventive services.