Sex differences in assessments of the quality of Medicare managed care.

Women rate their care slightly more positively than men on the Medicare managed care Consumer Assessments of Health Plans Study (CAHPS) survey. On four of five composites, women have comparable or slightly more positive composite scores than men. Responses to individual questions in 1997 indicate that women may have slightly more problems getting referrals, equipment, and assistance. In 1998, there were no differences in difficulty getting a referral or assistance, but women were less likely to say their plan provided help, services, and equipment. Women were less likely to get a flu shot in both years. Further monitoring of CAHPS data on sex differences in difficulty getting needed medical equipment are warranted.