Factors associated with first-time use of preventive services in the United States

Abstract

Objective: To examine factors associated with first-time use of preventive services based on the Behavioral Model of Health Services Use.

Methods: Nine panels of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey were merged to identify first-time users of 8 preventive services: blood pressure check, cholesterol screening, colonoscopy, flu vaccination, routine physical, Pap smear, mammogram, and clinical breast examination. Multivariate logistic regressions and sample weights were used.

Results: Insurance coverage, access to care, and racial/ethnic minorities are associated with higher odds of first-time use. Findings based on cross-sectional data may not be valid for first-time use.

Conclusions: Increased insurance coverage, better access to care, and a focus on minority population can help nonusers of preventive care to make the transition.