This project will examine the differences in rates of employer-based, individual, and public health insurance coverage among rural, compared to urban, individuals aged 55 to 64, using the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). We will also explore the effect of different types of insurance, and the lack of insurance, on access to care for rural and urban people in this age group. The study will address three principal research questions:

1. What are the differences, if any, in rates of employer-based, individual, and government health insurance for the near-elderly (aged 55-64) in rural, compared to urban areas?
2. What specific socio-economic, employment, health and/or other characteristics place the rural near-elderly at risk of having no insurance or individual insurance? Are these the same as for urban people in this age group?and,
3. What effect(s) do different insurance coverage statuses have on the use of preventive and other heath services for rural and urban near-elderly people?

Publications

• Health Insurance Coverage of The Rural and Urban Near Elderly
  Maine Rural Health Research Center
  Date: 10/2003
  This paper reports the results of a study that used data from the 1996-1998 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey to address two principal research questions related to health insurance coverage for the rural near elderly.