The Effect of Race and Other Factors on the Utilization of Annual Physical Examinations and Preventive Healthcare Services in the District of Columbia

This study shows a statistically and clinically significant gap between Whites and Blacks in the use of annual physical examination and preventive care services in the District of Columbia. The results of the study indicate that race (Whites versus Blacks) and work schedule conflicts are not significant factors in the noted gap. The study also found that income and education levels were not significant factors. Moreover, the study demonstrates a knowledge gap between Whites and Blacks pertaining to knowing that critical preventive care services are fully covered by health insurance plans (Section 2713 of the Affordable Care Act mandate). This is important because the study indicates that knowing that critical preventive care services are covered by health insurance companies is a (small) contributing factor in the difference in the utilization of preventive care services between Whites and Blacks in the District of Columbia.