Disparities in Medicare Stroke Care and Outcomes: A New Study

A neurologist at UVA Health has launched a study to explore disparities in stroke care and outcomes among individuals with different Medicare plans. According to Dr. Jonathan R. Crowe, Medicare is a significant payer for stroke care in the U.S., covering costs over $2 billion annually. His research focuses on how policies impact treatment and recovery for Medicare patients by analyzing data from Medicare and the American Heart Association, with a specific interest in differences between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.

Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, contributing significantly to long-term disability. With approximately 800,000 Americans experiencing strokes each year, Dr. Crowe's previous findings indicate that Medicare Advantage enrollees often have better access to preventive services and quicker recovery times. However, traditional Medicare beneficiaries receive more intensive rehabilitation post-stroke. Despite differing pathways, overall stroke outcomes remain similar between the two groups.

Dr. Crowe's research is supported by a $231,000 Career Development Award from the American Heart Association, which will facilitate further investigation into stroke care differences, particularly within Medicare Advantage. The study will analyze over 12.5 million Medicare claims and American Heart Association data, assessing treatment strategies and outcomes such as thrombolysis, mechanical thrombectomy, in-hospital mortality, and post-discharge pathways. To identify additional barriers, interviews with stroke survivors and caregivers will be conducted, aiming to enhance stroke outcomes and care quality nationwide.