Westat Enhances Health Care Research with MEPS-HC
Westat is proud to sustain its collaboration with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) in managing the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Household Component (MEPS-HC). This initiative plays a vital role in AHRQ's mission to generate evidence aimed at making health care safer and more accessible, ensuring it's of higher quality and affordability.
MEPS-HC: A Cornerstone of Healthcare Data
The MEPS is renowned for being the most comprehensive source of data regarding health care costs and usage in the United States. Since 1996, Westat has been part of this endeavor, operating under several contracts with AHRQ to enhance the integrity and utility of health care utilization and expenditure data. The synergy between Westat and AHRQ has been characterized by transparent dialogue and a commitment to responsiveness, reflecting shared values and goals.
Robust Experience and Commitment
Throughout the years, Westat has proven to be an industry frontrunner in methods and technology pivotal for effectively fulfilling AHRQ's goals. The company is well-equipped to manage the intricacies and demanding schedules associated with the MEPS project. Westat has displayed remarkable agility, especially during unforeseen circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, seamlessly adapting its data collection methods to ensure continuity and quality.
Adaptations During Challenges
Westat has dynamically evolved its operations, especially as traditional in-person interviews transformed during the pandemic. Notably, the integration of video interviewing saw over 20% of household interactions conducted via platforms like Zoom. This innovation not only reduced costs but also minimized the burden on respondents, showcasing Westat's commitment to delivering valuable data while being mindful of participant experiences.
Pioneering Technological Innovations
Among the numerous advancements made, Westat's initiative to adapt the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) instrument twice yearly is significant. This process enables continuous enhancement and meticulous tracking of data collection methods, ensuring that the interviews remain valid and relevant, fostering an environment of quality assurance.
Achievements in Data Collection
Westat's achievements in the MEPS-HC are noteworthy, with nearly 850,000 interviews completed over the last 27 years, alongside training around 4,000 skilled field interviewers. Each year, the organization conducts between 30,000-35,000 interviews involving approximately 14,000 households, complemented by the collection of myriad medical provider authorization forms and self-administered questionnaires.
Delivering Actionable Insights
In its commitment to transparency and accessibility, Westat delivers over 100 restricted-use and public-use datasets annually, utilizing thousands of SAS programs and SQL files to ensure data is processed effectively. This information aids in better understanding the landscape of health care costs and utilization, empowering stakeholders in government and the private sector alike.
Future Collaborations with AHRQ
Jacqueline Hogan, Westat's Vice President, looks forward to continued collaboration with AHRQ's analysts and program managers. The objective is to innovate and deepen the development of MEPS, ensuring it evolves alongside emerging healthcare needs while staying firmly aligned with AHRQ’s mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is MEPS-HC?
MEPS-HC, or the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Household Component, is a vital source of information on health care costs and usage in the U.S.
2. How long has Westat been conducting MEPS-HC?
Westat has been conducting MEPS-HC since its inception in 1996.
3. What adaptation did Westat make during the pandemic?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Westat shifted from in-person interviews to telephone and video interviews.
4. How many interviews does Westat conduct annually?
Westat conducts between 30,000 to 35,000 interviews each year as part of the MEPS-HC.
5. What is Westat's approach in partnering with AHRQ?
Westat's partnership with AHRQ is characterized by innovation, responsiveness, and a commitment to quality in data collection.
