Anderson Judy, Miller Sheila D
Sickle Cell Association, Inc. Norfolk, VA, USA.
J Health Soc Policy. 2002;16(1-2):5-20. doi: 10.1300/j045v16n01_02.
Transition issues faced by the sickle cell patient who has a significant chronic illness or disability are many and often life threatening. The problems that are faced in transitioning from Medicaid to managed care are many that could hinder the process and patient satisfaction. Such problems during the transition periods could stem from interrupted health care services; improperly coordinated services; inappropriate intervention; and inappropriate or unfounded psychologically diagnosed cases (Blum, 1993). It is not known which health care programs are cost-effective and which are not. Nor is it known which health care program best meets the needs of patients with chronic illnesses or varying levels of severity; and it is not known if health status actually improves as a result of transitioning from one program to another. What factors then impact the satisfaction levels in transitioning from Medicaid to managed care for sickle cell patients in Hampton Roads, Virginia? This study looked at patient satisfaction with the transition from Medicaid to managed care as related to the cost of care, quality of care, and access to care.
