An empirical investigation of chronic diseases: A visualization approach to Medicare in the United States.

This study explores the condition of chronic diseases and the association with demographics, hospital statistics, and spending. It provides a contemporary view of the current state of chronic diseases and conditions of Medicare beneficiaries in the United States. The data is drawn from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for the years 2007–2015. Using visualization tools and descriptive analytics, a series of charts are developed to surface and describe the key characteristics and dimensions of chronic conditions across key regions and races in the U.S. The study indicates the wide prevalence of several chronic diseases cutting across race, region, and other indicators. It implies the need to formulate policies for targeted populations. It is important to conduct such studies periodically to understand the nature and effects of chronic diseases. The results inform policymakers whose job it is to evaluate the efficacy of policies and strategies in the management and prevention of chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]