Ambulatory care for chronic conditions in an inner-city elderly population

Factors affecting the extent to which individuals aged 65 and over living in inner-city households received health care for three chronic conditions (high blood pressure, heart trouble, arthritis) are examined. These factors are age, sex, living arrangements, and the presence of more than one chronic condition. Indicators of receiving care are having seen a health care provider within the previous six months and being on medication for the condition. A more detailed scrutiny of care received for high blood pressure is undertaken as well. This analysis is part of a larger study investigating health care of groups within East Baltimore who utilize different systems of care, focusing on a hospital outpatient department and a new HMO. Data were obtained from 1455 household interviews among three sample populations: enrolees in an HMO, public housing project residents, and the general community. The findings indicate that high proportions of the elderly who report having these conditions also report receiving care for them. For people with high blood pressure, the majority are receiving care and being given self-care instructions, and high proportions report compliance with instructions.