Report: Managed care programs could benefit states, Medicare
Managed care programs for dual eligibles that integrate Medicare and Medicaid could help states and the Medicare program save money, a new study suggests.
Such programs have resulted in decreased use of Medicare-funded high-cost services and increased access to home- and community-based long-term care services, the Congressional Research Service said recently in a report. A majority of U.S. nursing home residents fall under the "dual eligible" category.States could save as a result of greater budget predictability through Medicare, as well as through reduced nursing home stays. Medicare could also benefit as a result of the utilization shift to Medicaid-funded services from Medicare-funded services. Current programs include: All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), Massachusetts Senior Care Options, Minnesota Senior Health Options, and New York Medicaid Advantage Program.
