Medicaid Expansions and Differences in Guideline-Adherent Cervical Cancer Screening Between American Indian and White Women

Overview

This study examines the effects of Medicaid expansions under the Affordable Care Act on adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines among American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) and White women. Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from 2010 to 2020, the research focuses on differences in healthcare access and screening rates between these two populations. 

Key Findings

• Limited Impact for AIAN Women: Medicaid expansions did not significantly increase guideline-adherent cervical cancer screenings among AIAN women. However, there was a slight improvement in healthcare coverage and a reduction in avoiding medical care due to costs. 
• Modest Gains for White Women: Medicaid expansions were associated with improved healthcare coverage for White women, along with a modest increase in Pap test screenings over the past five years. 

Implications for Policy and Practice

• Targeted Interventions Needed: The study emphasizes the necessity of targeted interventions to increase cervical cancer screening rates among AIAN women, as Medicaid expansions alone did not result in substantial improvements in screening adherence for this population. These interventions could address barriers to care that remain despite improved access to healthcare coverage.