Study links cash payments to fewer ED visits

Giving monthly cash payments to low-income people could result in fewer emergency department visits, according to a study in JAMA Network Open. The study enrolled 2,880 randomized participants in Chelsea, Mass. Participants who received $400 per month for nine months via debit card had 27% fewer ED visits, including fewer ED visits leading to hospital admission and fewer ED visits related to behavioral health and substance use. In addition, participants who received cash payments attended more outpatient appointments to subspecialists, particularly those without cars. The authors conclude policies to reduce poverty could improve health and access to health care.