Food insecurity and healthcare access, utilization, and quality among middle and later life adults in California.

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined the association between food insecurity status and healthcare access, utilization, and quality among adults aged 55years and older. Methods: Data collected between 2011 and 2016 for the California Health Interview Survey were used. The sample included 72,212 individuals who were divided into three groups: food secure (FS), low food security (L-FS), and very low food security (VL-FS). Results: Logistic regression analyses controlled for demographics. Food insecurity was associated with decreased access to and quality of care and increased utilization. Specifically, VL-FS was more likely to delay care than FS. Additionally, VL-FS and L-FS had greater odds of visiting an emergency room than FS. Furthermore, VL-FS and L-FS were more likely to have a doctor who did not always explain aspects of care carefully compared to FS. Discussion: These findings suggest a need for increased screening for food insecurity in healthcare settings.