TY - JOUR T1 - Expenditures in the elderly with peripheral neuropathy: Where should we focus cost-control efforts? JF - Neurology. Clinical Practice Y1 - 2013 A1 - Brian C. Callaghan A1 - James F. Burke A1 - Rodgers, Ann A1 - Ryan J McCammon A1 - Kenneth M. Langa A1 - Eva L Feldman A1 - Kevin Kerber KW - Medical Expenses KW - Medicare/Medicaid/Health Insurance KW - Older Adults KW - Peripheral Neuropathy AB -

To optimize care in the evaluation of peripheral neuropathy, we sought to define which tests drive expenditures and the role of the provider type. We investigated test utilization and expenditures by provider type in those with incident neuropathy in a nationally representative elderly, Medicare population. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine predictors of MRI and electrodiagnostic utilization. MRIs of the neuroaxis and electrodiagnostic tests accounted for 88% of total expenditures. Mean and aggregate diagnostic expenditures were higher in those who saw a neurologist. Patients who saw a neurologist were more likely to receive an MRI and an electrodiagnostic test. MRIs and electrodiagnostic tests are the main contributors to expenditures in the evaluation of peripheral neuropathy, and should be the focus of future efficiency efforts.

VL - 3 IS - 5 ER -