Medicaid’s Role for Dual Eligibles

These short profiles illustrate the help that Medicaid provides to four individuals who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare. They include a 66-year-old former nurse who suffers from a multitude of health problems; an 86-year-old stroke survivor and nursing home resident; a 64-year-old man with disabilities who lives independently; and a 42-year-old woman with numerous chronic conditions, including diabetes, a thyroid condition, effects of a stroke, and depression.

There are 9 million “dual eligibles” — low-income seniors and younger persons with disabilities who are enrolled in both the Medicaid and Medicare programs. They are generally poorer and sicker than other Medicare beneficiaries, and the cost of their care accounts for a disproportionate share of both Medicaid and Medicare program spending.

Profiles (.pdf)