Jump in Elective Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Numbers at Age 65 Years: Evidence for Moral Hazard?

Kelsey A RankinIsaac G FreedmanHarold G MooreScott J HalperinLee E RubinJonathan Newman Grauer

Published in: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews (2022)

In this large national sample, there was a clear step increase in undergoing TKA or THA once patients reached the age of 65 years (Medicare eligibility). This discontinuity in the bell-shaped curve may be evidence for a moral hazard in healthcare markets. Although factors in decision-making were not assessed, there were demographic factors associated with this step finding.

Keyphrases

total hip
decision making
total knee arthroplasty
healthcare
end stage renal disease
ejection fraction
newly diagnosed
patients undergoing
prognostic factors
affordable care act