Social Determinants of Health, Cost-related Nonadherence, and Cost-reducing Behaviors Among Adults With Diabetes: Findings From the National Health Interview Survey

Med Care. 2016 Aug;54(8):796-803. doi: 10.1097/MLR.0000000000000565.

Abstract

Background: Cost-related nonadherence (CRN) is prevalent among individuals with diabetes and can have significant negative health consequences. We examined health-related and non-health-related pressures and the use of cost-reducing strategies among the US adult population with and without diabetes that may impact CRN.

Methods: Data from the 2013 wave of National Health Interview Survey (n=34,557) were used to identify the independent impact of perceived financial stress, financial insecurity with health care, food insecurity, and cost-reducing strategies on CRN.

Results: Overall, 11% (n=4158) of adults reported diabetes; 14% with diabetes reported CRN, compared with 7% without diabetes. Greater perceived financial stress [prevalence ratio (PR)=1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05-1.09], financial insecurity with health care (PR=1.6; 95% CI, 1.5-1.67), and food insecurity (PR=1.30; 95% CI, 1.2-1.4) were all associated with a greater likelihood of CRN. Asking the doctor for a lower cost medication was associated with a lower likelihood of CRN (PR=0.2; 95% CI, 0.2-0.3), and 27% with CRN reported this. Other cost-reducing behavioral strategies (using alternative therapies, buying prescriptions overseas) were associated with a greater likelihood of CRN.

Conclusions: Half of the adults with diabetes perceived financial stress, and one fifth reported financial insecurity with health care and food insecurity. Talking to a health care provider about low-cost options may be protective against CRN in some situations. Improving screening and communication to identify CRN and increase transparency of low-cost options patients are pursuing may help safeguard from the health consequences of cutting back on treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cost Control / methods
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diabetes Mellitus / therapy*
  • Female
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Insurance Coverage
  • Insurance, Health
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Self Care / economics*
  • Social Determinants of Health*