The Buzz

For decades, states have been working to integrate care to improve access to high-quality care for people dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, but progress is limited. Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) can support a process by which states can navigate the infrastructure and political constraints that have historically prevented states from advancing Medicare-Medicaid integration efforts.

In a new Health Affairs blog, TSF explores how an MPA can help states navigate barriers to advancing integrated, high-quality health care.

Read the chartbook; attend the July 17 webinar.

California’s older Medicare beneficiaries with income just above the Medi-Cal eligibility limit (near dual) have a similar demographic profile to people dually eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal. They also have higher rates of disability and less access to social supports than those with higher incomes. However, they are not eligible for Medi-Cal long-term services and supports and do not have the resources to pay privately for care.

To better understand the demographics and needs of this population, the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) Office of Medicare Innovation and Integration recently released a Profile of Older Californians: Medicare Beneficiaries Near Income Eligibility for Medi-Cal. Developed by ATI Advisory, this is the third chartbook in a series that provides information on the demographics, needs, and health care experiences of California’s Medicare beneficiaries. See the other chartbooks, and the related TSF webpage:

• Profile of the California Medicare Population
• Cultural and Linguistic Demographics of the California Medicare Population

Join TSF on July 17 for a webinar and discussion hosted by DHCS which will build on the chartbook topics.