Research glut and information famine: making research evidence more useful for policymakers.

The gap between the two worlds of researchers and policymakers renders the use of research in the policy-making process problematic. Policymakers have three primary needs in their use of research evidence: clear translation, accessible and easy-to-use information, and relevance to the policy context. These needs are sometimes at odds with the priorities of the research community.

Are the uninsured responsible for the increase in emergency department visits in the United States?

Study Objective: The rise in emergency department (ED) use in the United States is frequently attributed to increased visits by the uninsured. We determine whether insurance status is associated with the increase in ED visits.

Methods: Using the national Community Tracking Study Household Surveys from 1996 to 1997, 1998 to 1999, 2000 to 2001, and 2003 to 2004, we determined for each period the proportion of reported adult ED visits according to insurance status, family income, usual source of care, health status, and outpatient (non-ED) visits.

Characteristics of frequent users of emergency departments.

Study Objective: We identify frequent users of the emergency department (ED) and determine the characteristics of these patients.

Methods: Using the 2000 to 2001 population-based, nationally representative Community Tracking Study Household Survey, we determined the number of adults (aged 18 and older) making 1 to 7 or more ED visits and the number of visits for which they accounted. Based on the distribution of visits, we established a definition for frequent user of 4 or more visits.

Does lack of a usual source of care or health insurance increase the likelihood of an emergency department visit? Results of a national population-based study.

Study Objective: We determined whether having a usual source of care or health insurance is associated with the likelihood of an emergency department (ED) visit.

Methods: This was a multivariate analysis of the 2000 to 2001 nationally representative Community Tracking Study Household Survey to assess the independent association of usual source of care, health insurance, income, and health status with the likelihood of making 1 or more ED visits in the previous year.

Results: Based on a sample of 49,603 adults, an estimated 45.