Factors associated with first-time use of preventive services in the United States

To examine factors associated with first-time use of preventive services based on the Behavioral Model of Health Services Use.

Nine panels of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey were merged to identify first-time users of 8 preventive services: blood pressure check, cholesterol screening, colonoscopy, flu vaccination, routine physical, Pap smear, mammogram, and clinical breast examination. Multivariate logistic regressions and sample weights were used.

Insurance coverage, access to care, and racial/ethnic minorities are associated with higher odds of first-time use. Findings based on cross-sectional data may not be valid for first-time use.

Increased insurance coverage, better access to care, and a focus on minority population can help nonusers of preventive care to make the transition.