• Older Men cohort
• Young Men cohort

Older Men cohort

Two surveys collected information on the respondent's medical insurance. In 1981, the respondent reported whether he was covered by part A of Medicare, part B of Medicare, Medicaid, or any other medical or hospital insurance. The survey also asked if the respondent was a member of a health maintenance organization (HMO) and whether he was eligible for free hospital or medical care due to veteran status. As part of this series, respondents stated whether they had received any hospital or medical care in the past year that was paid for by Medicare, other health insurance, or Medicaid.

The 1990 interview asked sample persons whether they were eligible for Medicare part A and part B, as well as whether they had received any care paid for by Medicaid in past 12 months. If the respondent was covered by a plan other than Medicare, he reported whether it paid hospital expenses and doctor's bills, whether it was obtained through an employer or union, and whether the employer or union paid all or part of the premium. If the respondent was not covered by any insurance (other than Medicare), the interview asked him to state the reason. Finally, respondents were asked how they paid for medical expenses not covered by insurance in the past 12 months (savings, current income, debt).

Young Men cohort

In 1976 and 1981, Young Men respondents were asked whether their current employer provided insurance coverage for medical, surgical, or hospital expenses, including coverage for illnesses or injuries occurring outside of the workplace.