Cross-Sectional Study to Evaluate Disparity in Healthcare Access for Patients With a Headache Having Cigna or Medicaid Insurance

Introduction: This study aims to study the disparity in Cigna and Medicaid insurance holders, to secure an appointment for a patient with a headache for two days unrelieved by over-the-counter medication.

Methodology: This is a cross-sectional "secret shopper" type study, assessing the three most populated cities in seven states with the lowest Medicaid coverage and Internal Medicine specialists within a 10-mile radius, with a minimum rating of 3 stars and a willingness to accept new patients.

Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the average waiting period for those with Medicaid and Cigna in the states of Missouri, Nebraska, and Utah, as well as the total average for all seven states. Moreover, there were more healthcare providers who accepted Medicaid rather than Cigna in New Hampshire; whereas in Wyoming, the numbers for Medicaid and Cigna were almost equal.

Conclusions: The significant Medicaid-Cigna acceptance rate disparities should be corrected to ensure higher healthcare access.