Table 2.
Multivariate model of factors associated with frequency of emergency department visits for COPD exacerbation during the past year
| Variable | Incidence rate ratio | 95% Confidence interval |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 0.99 | 0.97–1.01 |
| Female sex | 0.86 | 0.66–1.13 |
| High school graduate | 0.81 | 0.61–1.07 |
| Race | ||
| White | 1 | Reference |
| Black | 1.23 | 0.88–1.74 |
| Hispanic | 1.97 | 1.16–3.33 |
| Others | 2.12 | 0.77–5.83 |
| Insurance status | ||
| Private | 1 | Reference |
| Medicaid | 1.41 | 0.89–2.24 |
| Other public | 0.96 | 0.68–1.35 |
| None | 1.64 | 0.98–2.73 |
| Has primary care provider | 0.51 | 0.31–0.82 |
| Prior hospitalization for COPD | 2.06 | 1.51–2.82 |
| Ever taken systemic corticosteroids for COPD | 1.57 | 1.16–2.13 |
| Ever intubated for COPD | 1.49 | 1.02–2.18 |
| Use of methylxanthine in past 4 weeks | 1.48 | 1.04–2.12 |
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)