What is MEPS data?

The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) is a set of large-scale surveys of families and individuals, their medical providers, and employers across the United States. MEPS is the most complete source of data on the cost and use of health care and health insurance coverage. Learn more about MEPS.

How does the MEPS survey work?

Each surveyed household is interviewed five times over a two-year period. The MEPS Medical Provider Component (MEPS-MPC) survey collects information from providers of medical care that supplements the information collected from persons in the MEPS-HC sample in order to provide the most accurate cost data possible.

Is MEPS data free?

Thus, MEPS combines self-report and provider-reported data for the same patients. The Household Component is publicly available at no cost, but the Insurance Component is not publicly released and requires approval and possible fees.

Is MEPS publicly available?

MEPS Components Only Household Component is available for public use. Access MEPSnet/HC to generate statistics using HC public use files.

How is MEPS data collected?

Data collection for the MEPS Household Component takes place using a computer-assisted personal interview (CAPI) system. A core instrument is administered in each of the first five rounds of data collection, with periodic supplements added in selected rounds to deal with specific topics in greater depth.

What happens after MEPS?

Some people will go into their branch’s delayed entry program (DEP) and go home after MEPS to wait until their ship-out date. Others will embark to basic training immediately after MEPS. Remember, you have not joined the military before going to MEPS, but by the end of it, you will be asked to.

What questions are asked at MEPS?

During your background screening, MEPS personnel make sure you understand the conditions of your enlistment; this step also ensures you understand what you’re signed up to do! You will be asked some questions about your marital status, drug or alcohol abuse, law violations and concealment of physical problems.

Can MEPS pull medical records?

Lying at MEPS about medical or mental health history is a really bad idea with serious consequences, as stated on the Army enlistment contract you sign. Because the military does not routinely pull medical records, recruits who pass their physical and reveal no prior history may get in.

What do you wear to MEPS?

Wear neat, moderate, comfortable clothing. Don’t bring stereo headphones, watches, jewelry, excessive cash or any other valuables. Ask your recruiter for a list of recommended personal items to bring to basic training. Processing starts early at the MEPS — You must report on time.

Do you get paid for basic training?

Pay for BMT depends upon your rank. Every enlisted recruit starts out as an E1, and can expect an annual salary of around $20,170.80. BMT is 10 weeks, so the average E1 payment for basic training is around $3,800 plus meals and housing.

How long after MEPS is basic training?

What Happens After the MEPS. After finishing at the MEPS, recruits follow one of two options: “Direct Ship:” Departure for Basic Training occurs in a matter of days versus months. Delayed Entry Program (DEP): Commit to Basic Training at a time in the future, generally within one year.

Does MEPS search your bag?

When you arrive at the MEPS, you will go through a metal detector and your bags will be checked for contraband such as weapons and illegal items. If found, your entrance into MEPS may be denied. You should wear comfortable clothing of suitable appearance.