Inquiry. 1998 Spring;35(1):36-48. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE
This article examines the extent to which people with HIV infection
change their insurance and employment status over time and investigates
the correlates of such changes. Data come from the AIDS Cost and
Services Utilization Survey, which followed 1,949 HIV-infected adults
over an 18-month period that began March 1, 1991. In the first
interview, overall, 33% of respondents had private insurance; 40% had
public coverage (i.e., Medicaid, Medicare, CHAMPUS); and 27% had no
insurance. Among the subgroup with AIDS, corresponding figures were 32%,
54%, and 14%. Overall, 65% were unemployed; among those with AIDS, 82%
were unemployed. Over the 18-month period, 23% of respondents reported a
change in insurance status and 27% reported a change in employment
status. Among those who began the study with private insurance, only 15%
reported losing this coverage. Transitions from no insurance to public
coverage occurred most frequently. Compared to those who began the study
with AIDS, those who progressed to AIDS during the study period were
more likely to experience a change in insurance (18% vs. 32%).
Consistent with prior studies, public insurance plays a major role in
financing care for people with HIV infection. Transitions from public
coverage to no insurance may disrupt access to care.
*Employment/TRENDS *HIV Infections/ECONOMICS *Insurance
Coverage/TRENDS *Insurance, Health/TRENDS