Resources

Navigating the healthcare system can be particularly challenging for dual-eligible individuals—those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. With unique needs that span medical care, long-term services, and supports, it’s essential for dual eligibles to have access to resources that can help guide them through their benefits, rights, and care options. In this resource, we’ll explore the top resources available for dual-eligible consumers, offering valuable information, advocacy, and support to ensure they receive the care and services they deserve.

Historical Context

1. Medicare and Medicaid Program History
   • Link: Program History and Prior Initiatives | Medicaid
   • Description: This resource provides an overview of the inception and evolution of Medicaid and Medicare since their establishment in 1965.
   • Key Strength: Offers foundational knowledge about the origins and legislative milestones of these programs.
     
     
2. Dual Eligible Beneficiaries: An Overview
   • Link: Dual eligible beneficiaries: An overview – MedPAC
   • Description: This document examines the demographics, spending patterns, and challenges faced by dual-eligible beneficiaries.
   • Key Strength: Provides detailed statistical insights and highlights historical challenges in coordinating care between Medicare and Medicaid.

Current Landscape

1. The Landscape of Medicare and Medicaid Coverage Arrangements
   • Link: The Landscape of Medicare and Medicaid Coverage Arrangements for Dual-Eligible Individuals Across States
   • Description: This issue brief explores the various coverage arrangements for dual-eligible individuals across different states.
   • Key Strength: Highlights the diversity in state approaches and the implications for beneficiaries navigating these systems.
     
     
2. Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs): What Advocates Need to Know
   • Link: Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) – Justice in Aging
   • Description: This brief provides essential information about D-SNPs and their role in coordinating care for dual-eligible individuals.
   • Key Strength: Equips advocates and consumers with knowledge to engage effectively with D-SNPs and understand their benefits.
     
     

Future Developments

1. White Paper: Forging a Path Toward Integrated Care for Dually Eligible Individuals
   • Link: White Paper: Forging a Path Toward Integrated Care for Dually Eligible Individuals
   • Description: This white paper discusses proposed models and strategies aimed at integrating care for dually eligible individuals.
   • Key Strength: Offers forward-looking perspectives on policy initiatives and integration efforts to improve care delivery.
     
     
2. Improving Care for Individuals Dually Eligible for Medicare and Medicaid
   • Link: Improving Care for Individuals Dually Eligible for Medicare and Medicaid
   • Description: This issue brief assesses the Financial Alignment Initiative (FAI) and its impact on care for dually eligible individuals.
   • Key Strength: Provides insights into recent evaluations and lessons learned from efforts to align Medicare and Medicaid services.
     
     

These resources collectively offer a comprehensive understanding of the historical background, current state, and future directions of programs and policies affecting dual-eligible consumers.