Transportation Access to Health Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Trends and Implications for Significant Patient Populations and Health Care Needs

Research Team: Katherine L. Chen (lead), Madeline Brozen, Jeffrey E. Rollman, Tayler Ward, Keith Norris, Kimberly D. Gregory, and Frederick J. Zimmerman

UC Campus(es): UCLA

Problem Statement: Access to in-person medical care is critical for high risk patients, such as those who are pregnant or suffering from certain end-stage diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted medical care access, in part due to transportation system disruptions.

Project Description: This report examines current knowledge about disparities in transportation and access to health care for people with various health conditions and health care needs. The report highlights evidence related to end-stage kidney disease, pregnancy, cancer, mental health and substance use, disabilities, multiple chronic conditions, and preventive care to discuss population-specific transportation needs and challenges, COVID-19 health risks, and impacts of transportation system disruption on health outcomes during the pandemic. The report concludes with policy recommendations for how leaders in transportation, public health, and health care can improve transportation access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Status: Completed

Budget: $14,500