The Association Between Medicare Eligibility on Elective Procedures and Hospital Transfers: A regression discontinuity design applied to the National Inpatient Sample

Introduction Access to affordable health coverage for individuals aged 51 and older, particularly those transitioning out of employer-sponsored insurance or with existing health conditions, is challenging in the United States. This study investigates the potential impact of lowering the Medicare eligibility age on healthcare utilization, focusing on elective procedures among late middle-aged individuals. Previous studies indicate significant increases in healthcare utilization around the Medicare eligibility threshold, but a national-level analysis is needed to understand the implications of policy changes in Medicare eligibility.