Objectives

This study quantified changes in Medicare payments and outcomes for hip fracture and stroke from 1984 to 1994.

Methods

We studied National Long Term Care Survey respondents who were hospitalized for hip fracture (n = 887) or stroke (n = 878) occurring between 1984 and 1994. Changes in Medicare payment and survival were primary outcomes. We also assessed changes in functional and cognitive status.

Results

Medicare payments within 6 months increased following hip fracture (103%) or stroke (51%). Survival improved for stroke (P < .001) and to a lesser extent for hip fracture (P = .16). Condition-specific improvements were found in functional and cognitive status.

Conclusions

During the period 1984 to 1994, Medicare payments for hip fracture and stroke rose and there were some improvements in survival and other outcomes.