Development of Tools to Identify and Measure

Disability Population Segments

Overview

This study creates tools for identifying segments of the Medicaid Aged, Blind and Disabled (ABD) population so that researchers and policy analysts can design programs, policies and resource allocations that are better suited to the unique needs of each segment. The foundational tools created in this project will ultimately result in better health outcomes for people with disabilities as well as cost savings.

Purpose

To measure and better understand the unique health needs of individuals with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities and mental health disorders so that Medicaid program staff can design and implement programs and policies that meet the specific needs of each population segment and, as a result, create cost savings and more effective resource allocation.

Anticipated Benefits

• The model assessment for state Medicaid programs will help advance how states can regularly monitor the health of people with disabilities and the effectiveness of the Medicaid programs.

• The algorithms developed in the project will provide a method for identifying specific disability population segments so that research can more accurately identify the unique health concerns of each population segment.

Study Design

We will apply the population-specific knowledge we have to the administrative Medicaid health care claims to establish algorithms for creating datasets of each population segment. We have conducted preliminary analysis of some disability groups to identify population disease patterns and disease management.

For more information, contact Amanda Reichard, Ph.D., principal investigator, reichard@ku.edu; or the Research and Training Center on Measurement and Interdependence in Community Living at the RTC/IL, 4089 Dole, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785.864.4095 (voice), 785.864.0706 TTY, RTCIL@ku.edu.

National Institute of Disability Rehabilitation Research grant H133B060018