Investigating Health Outcomes Among Recipients of the Affordable Connectivity Program

Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)the largest and most successful consumer broadband subsidy program in the U.S.on health outcomes. Using repeated cross-sectional survey data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), four health outcomes are examined in this paper: 1) Use of telehealth services; 2) Looking up health information online; 3) Communication with doctor's office online; and 4) Retrieve test results online. A difference-indifference model is fitted to estimate the impact of ACP on telehealth use, finding no evidence. Logistic regression time fixed effects models were estimated to predict the health outcomes in ACP eligible and ineligible populations. The results indicate that ACP eligible adults have lower odds of using the internet for any of these health-related activities compared to the rest of the population. However, after controlling for demographic characteristics, no evidence of a difference in odds is seen for health information search, communicating with a medical provider, or retrieving test results. Adults with a bachelor's degree, women, those who live in a metro area, or have a higher income to poverty ratio, have higher odds of using the internet for all of these health-related activities. Increase in age, being of Hispanic origin or Black are associated with lower odds. Adults enrolled in Medicaid have higher odds for telehealth and communicating with a provider, but lower odds for health information search.

Note:
Funding Information: This work is funded through the Marjorie & Charles Benton Opportunity Fund Fellowship.

Declaration of Interests: None.

Keywords: Affordable Connectivity Program, Health Outcomes, Telehealth, Digital Divide, Broadband Subsidy