This report is one of a series of reports prepared by the USM Muskie School on MaineCare members who are dually eligible for MaineCare and Medicare Services.  This first report provides a high level overview of the MaineCare and Medicare use and expenditure patterns for all members who were dually eligible in state fiscal years (SFY) 2008-2010.  This report provides baseline data on the characteristics of Medicare-MaineCare members who are dually eligible, the distribution of expenditures across categories of service for MaineCare and Medicare, and the cost of care for people with select chronic conditions. The report includes information on members considered full benefit as well as those who are partial benefit members.  Partial benefit members are also know as Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries, Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiaries; Qualified Individuals; and Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals.  Individuals who are dually eligible for MaineCare and Medicare typically have multiple chronic conditions, high medical and long term care costs, and low income. Medicare covers hospital, medical, skilled long term care and pharmacy services while Medicaid pays for behavioral health, community based long term services and supports and nursing home services. The integration of services and benefits for people who are dually eligible is a challenge for states and the federal government. As states move to introduce value based purchasing initiatives through health homes, accountable care communities and other managed care efforts, the need to coordinate services and align incentives between the Medicaid and Medicare programs becomes increasingly critical. Many states are involved in dual eligible demonstrations to improve the integration of services, benefits and care.

Suggested Citation: McGuire C, Gressani T, Bratesman S, Fralich J, Griffin E.  Members Dually Eligible for MaineCare and Medicare Benefits: MaineCare and Medicare Expenditures and Utilization, State Fiscal Year 2010. (Chartbook).  Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service; October 2012.