« The Dual Agenda: September 17, 2014 Issue

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Study Connects Community Health Centers to Medicare Savings

A study in the latest issue of Medicare & Medicaid Research Review found that geographic regions offering greater access to primary care for low-income Medicare beneficiaries over 65 at community health centers  realized lower overall costs to Medicare. Much of the savings seems to accrue from a decreased utilization of post-acute care, hospice, durable medical equipment, and Part B drugs. There is limited evidence that clinical quality is compromised. Overall, the study suggests that in areas of the United States where access to health centers is limited, it is important to invest in improving  access to primary care.