In this study I examine the effectiveness of the Medicare Modernization Act’s inclusion of preventive cholesterol screenings with no copay or deductible to Medicare Part B beneficiaries. The screenings were included in the MMA to increase usage of cholesterol screenings among Medicare beneficiaries. Using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, I employ a difference-in-differences model to isolate the change in screening rate among Medicare beneficiaries. Using individuals not covered by Medicare as a baseline, I find that in three age restricted samples the rate of screening among Medicare beneficiaries either decrease or keep a constant screening rate, relative to the control group. Overall, the MMA’s cholesterol screening policies are not effective in increasing the rate of cholesterol screenings utilized.
Colorado College Honor Code upheld.
Includes bibliographical references
Colorado College Honor Code upheld.
