Why are people who are receiving both Medicare and Medicaid being enrolled automatically and getting extra help?
Nearly half of those individuals currently receiving both Medicare and Medicaid are in fair or poor health, almost twice the rate of others in Medicare; one-third have significant limitations in activities of daily living; and nearly one-third of the Medicare population will be eligible for this additional assistance in 2006.* *The Henry Kaiser Family Foundation, Medicare Low-Income Assistance Under the Medicare Drug Benefit, September 2005.
Nearly half of those individuals currently receiving both Medicare and Medicaid are in fair or poor health, almost twice the rate of others in Medicare; one-third have significant limitations in activities of daily living; and nearly one-third of the Medicare population will be eligible for this additional assistance in 20061. Additionally, many of these people have chronic illnesses, are taking multiple medications and need specialized care. Many also have severe or disabling chronic conditions that require a higher level of care than others in Medicare. The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 recognized this and provided automatic enrollment and financial assistance to ensure that their drug coverage needs are met uninterrupted. 1The Henry Kaiser Family Foundation, Medicare Low-Income Assistance Under the Medicare Drug Benefit, September 2005.
Related Questions
- I have both Medicare and full Medicaid coverage. Do I need to apply for extra help to pay for Medicare prescription drug coverage?
- What efforts are underway affecting people who qualify for extra help paying for their Medicare prescription drug coverage?
- Why are people who are receiving both Medicare and Medicaid being enrolled automatically and getting extra help?
