Scientists discuss in 'Insurance coverage among people living with combined HIV/AIDS, chronic mental illness, and substance abuse disorders' new findings in mental health. According to a study from the United States, 'HIV triply-diagnosed adults (those with chronic mental illness and substance abuse disorders) must rely heavily on public insurance to cover high annual medical costs (approximately $50,000). This study examines the nature and determinants of insurance coverage (including managed care) for this population, along with annual transitions in coverage.'
'Relative to people living with HIV/AIDS in general, fewer triply-diagnosed adults rely on private coverage (3% vs. 30%), but their rate of being uninsured is only slightly lower (16% vs. 20%). More than one third of such adults below poverty are uninsured-a matter of significant policy concern since the annual income of this group is less than 10% of the amount needed to cover their expected medical expenses. Those with the lowest mental health status were disproportionately represented in managed care,' wrote C.J. Conover and colleagues, Duke University, Center for Health Policy (see also Mental Health).
The researchers concluded: 'While coverage appears relatively stable over time, those with low incomes and moderate mental health status may face barriers in securing Medicaid.'
Conover and colleagues published the results of their research in the Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved (Insurance coverage among people living with combined HIV/AIDS, chronic mental illness, and substance abuse disorders. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 2010;21(3):1006-30).
For additional information, contact C.J. Conover, Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA.
The publisher of the Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved can be contacted at: Project MUSE, The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2715 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4319, USA.
Keywords: City:Durham, State:NC, Country:United States, HIV Infections, Managed Care, Mental Health, Mental Illness, Primate Lentiviruses, Psychiatry, RNA Viruses, Retroviridae, Vertebrate Viruses, Viral Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
This article was prepared by Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2010, Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week via NewsRx.com.
