Do Reduced Copayments Affect Mortality after Surgery due to Stroke? An Interrupted Time Series Analysis of a National Cohort Sampled in 2003-2012

The introduction of a policy for reducing copayments to ease excessive cost burdens for patients with stroke was positively associated with a reduced risk of 1-year mortality after surgical treatment due to stroke. On the basis of our results, health policy makers should make an effort to identify vulnerable populations and to overcome economic barriers for providing effective alternatives to ensure patients receive optimal health care.