Healthcare Utilization in Graduate Students vs Employed Adults
Taylor Betheil
Co-Presenters: Kristen Knaide, Madison McGourty, Bansi Patel, Hetvi Gandhi
College: The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major: Physician Assistant Studies (M.S.)
Faculty Research Mentor: Wendy Ritch
Abstract:
Title: Healthcare Utilization in Graduate Students vs Employed AdultsAuthors: Taylor Betheil, Hetvi Gandhi, Bansi Patel, Kristen Knaide, Madison McGourtyAbstract:Objective/Purpose:This study investigates the differences in healthcare access between full-time graduate students and full-time employed adults. Key factors included insurance coverage, cost, time constraints, demographics, and healthcare knowledge. By analyzing these variables, the research identified distinct challenges faced by graduate students while suggesting strategies for improving healthcare access and equity for this population.Methods:This study used a cross-sectional design to compare healthcare utilization between graduate students and employed adults. A survey was distributed online via email and social media, primarily targeting Kean University students but also extending to other institutions and regions. Participants (n=100) provided demographic information (age, gender, education, employment status) and healthcare experiences, including insurance type, frequency of visits, and delays in care.Results/Findings:Data analysis showed no significant difference between health utilization among full-time graduate students vs full-time employed adults. However, the chi-square test of independence found that lack of time was a significant cause of healthcare delay for both groups (p <.001). Other variables such as wait time for appointments, and healthcare costs did not show a significant impact on healthcare utilization.Conclusions:Employed individuals typically benefit from employer-sponsored insurance but may delay care due to work demands, while graduate students often rely on university health plans but face barriers such as limited financial resources and high stress. Further research is crucial to understand how each group navigates healthcare access and to inform policies that ensure equitable care, especially as workforce and academic dynamics continue to evolve.Significance/Novelty:Prior research has explored healthcare utilization by either graduate students or employed adults of similar demographics, evaluating factors such as insurance access and financial constraints. However, comparative studies of these two groups are scarce. This study contributes to the literature by identifying lack of time as a significant factor for both groups in delaying healthcare utilization.Keywords:Healthcare utilization, graduate students, employed adults, healthcare access, insurance coverage, healthcare barriers