Understanding patterns of change over time to improve mammography rates.
This retrospective cohort study determined trends and patterns of mammography rates during 5 years (1997-2001) among female Medicare beneficiaries ages 50 years and older in Connecticut to better understand changes in rates over time and to plan future interventions. Time series analysis and hierarchical Longitudinal logistic regression were used to assess changes over time. Mammography rates increased significantly during the 5-year period (p < .001). A cyclical pattern was observed for all age groups and counties, with dips and peaks in the spring and fall each year (average increase 8% per year), consistent with concentrated intervention activity at those times.
Barr
Judith K
JK
Qualidigm, Middletown, CT, USA. jbarr@qualidigm.org
Wang
Yun
Y
Curry
Maureen
M
Kelvey-Albert
Michele
M
Van Hoof
Thomas J
TJ
Meehan
Thomas P
TP
D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003237:Connecticut; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008327:Mammography / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000639:trends; D006278:Medicare / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012621:Seasons; D013997:Time Factors