Unmet need and access to family physicians: A national analysis using the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The Canadian health care system was founded on the principle of universal access to care. However, recent reports have ranked the country among the lowest performing high-income health systems in terms of access to care and health equity. This study investigates the determinants of access to care in older Canadian adults using a nationally representative survey. This cross-sectional study used data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging (N = 41,135) to examine the determinants of two indicators of healthcare access: self-report of having a family physician and unmet need of care. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between these indicators and sociodemographic determinants. Approximately 1 in 30 of the survey participants (aged ≥ 45 years at baseline) did not have a family physician, and 8% reported having unmet need for healthcare. The odds of having a family physician were higher for individuals who were older (≥ 55 years), female, had higher income (≥$100,000), poorer perceived mental health, or had ≥1 chronic condition. The odds of reporting unmet need were higher for individuals who were younger (45-54 years), female, non-white, had lower income (<$50,000), poorer perceived health status and had ≥2 chronic conditions. Despite progress over recent years, access to healthcare remains a challenge for older Canadians, particularly those who are socially disadvantaged. Tailored policy interventions are needed to reduce unmet need in the aging Canadian population.
Source: SSM - Health Systems
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,450
Award: G1551914075
OpenAlex ID: W4402127017