Preventive services are free, but underused
June 1, 1998 less than 1 minute read
Preventive services are free, but underused
Although Medicare pays for flu and pneumonia vaccinations and mammography and Pap screening, many beneficiaries don't take advantage of the services, reports the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data vary from state to state: In Alabama 46% of people over 65 had a flu shot in 1995 as compared with 70% in Utah. Thirteen percent from New Jersey had pneumonia vaccinations while 49% did in Arizona. The CDC's goal for flu and pneumonia immunization is 60% by the year 2000. The findings indicate, according to CDC officials, that coverage alone does not ensure use.
Reference
1. Use of clinical preventive services by Medicare beneficiaries aged > or = 65 years --- U.S., 1995. MMWR 1997; 46:1138-1143.
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