Where Does the Burden Lie?: Medicaid and Medicare Spending for Dual Eligible Beneficiaries

Publication Date: April 2009

Publisher: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Author(s): Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Research Area: Health

Keywords: Medicaid; Medicare; eligibles

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This issue brief analyzes Medicare and Medicaid spending on the "dual eligibles" -- those who are simultaneously enrolled in both programs. These seniors and non-elderly people with disabilities are among the nation's most vulnerable populations. They are generally low-income, in poor health and have considerable health care needs, making them one of the most costly populations covered by public health programs.