Mount Sinai South Nassau poll shows growing support for medical aid in dying

The latest “Truth in Medicine” poll conducted by Mount Sinai South Nassau, the closest hospital for Freeport residents, reveals that over one-third of Long Island and New York City residents support legalizing medical aid in dying. The survey indicates that 37% of respondents favor legislation allowing medical aid in dying (MAID), 21% oppose it, and 43% remain undecided.

The poll, which explores various health-related topics, also sheds light on residents’ health perceptions and engagement with healthcare services. Among respondents aged 65 and older, 60% rate their overall health as “excellent” or “good,” despite the increased risk for chronic conditions such as dementia, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis. Overall, 70% of participants consider their health to be “excellent” (13%) or “good” (57%).

The survey highlights disparities in healthcare engagement, with Black respondents and men accessing the healthcare system less frequently than other groups. Approximately 29% of all respondents have taken an independent patient satisfaction survey after a hospital stay, with nearly half of those aged 65 and older participating. Blacks, men, and those under 65 are the least likely to have taken such surveys.

Surprise medical bills continue to be a concern, with one-third of respondents reporting having received unexpected charges. This issue is particularly prevalent among Long Island residents, those with health insurance, and those aged 65 and older. The federal No Surprises Act, effective since January 2022, has helped prevent over 10 million surprise medical bills, according to a survey by American Health Insurance Providers and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

Advance care planning remains crucial, as 53% of respondent’s aged 65 and older have a living will, and 52% have designated a healthcare proxy. However, only 32% have long-term care insurance, and a mere 15% have toured an assisted living facility.

Healthcare provider satisfaction varies, with 25% of respondents with private health insurance expressing a “very positive” perception of their insurer. The majority, 75%, report having a primary healthcare provider, with engagement highest among those aged 65 and older. Younger adults are increasingly turning to urgent care and telehealth services for their healthcare needs.

The poll also found that 59% of those recently hospitalized had a positive experience, although 15% reported negative experiences due to lack of follow-up and substandard care.

The “Truth in Medicine” poll, conducted from March 21-26, 2024, by LJR Custom Strategies, surveyed 600 residents via landlines and cell phones. The findings have a margin of error of ±3.9%.

Mount Sinai South Nassau has been conducting these polls since January 2017 to educate and foster discussions on critical public health issues. For more information, visit www.southnassau.org/sn/truth-in-medicine.