Medicare Blog

what happens if you qualify for both medicaid and medicare

by Ms. Edwina Smith Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Benefits of Dual Eligibility
Persons who are enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare may receive greater healthcare coverage and have lower out-of-pocket costs. For Medicare covered expenses, such as medical and hospitalization, Medicare is always the first payer (primary payer).
Feb 11, 2022

Full Answer

What happens if you don’t qualify for Medicaid?

These new income limits are usually lower than limits that applied previously, and in most states you also have to meet an asset test. Even if you don’t still qualify for Medicaid under these rules, you might qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP), which would help with premiums.

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid eligibility?

When dual eligible beneficiaries have claims, Medicare pays first and Medicaid pays last. Eligibility for Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs is determined by each state, while the federal government determines Medicare eligibility.

Can you have both Medicare and Medicaid coverage?

Millions of individuals live on a fixed income, and this can qualify you for Medicaid coverage. Can you have both Medicare and Medicaid coverage, or do you have to choose one? If you qualify, you may be able to be a dual-eligible. Many seniors in the United States have dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid benefits.

Is it common for Medicare beneficiaries to receive Medicaid benefits?

It is also common for Medicare beneficiaries who are under 65 and live on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to receive Medicaid benefits. Can I select an insurance plan for my Medicare and Medicaid benefits?

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When can a patient have both Medicare and Medicaid?

Some Americans qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, and when this happens, it usually means they don't have any out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Beneficiaries with Medicare and Medicaid are known as dual eligibles – and account for about 20 percent of Medicare beneficiaries (about 12.3 million people).

When a person has both Medicare and Medicaid insurance charges are submitted first to?

gov . Medicare pays first, and Medicaid pays second . If the employer has 20 or more employees, then the group health plan pays first, and Medicare pays second .

Which is a combination Medicare and Medicaid option that combines medical?

What are dual health plans? Dual health plans are designed just for people who have both Medicaid and Medicare. They're a special type of Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan. Dual health plans combine hospital, medical and prescription drug coverage.

What is the highest income to qualify for Medicaid?

Federal Poverty Level thresholds to qualify for Medicaid The Federal Poverty Level is determined by the size of a family for the lower 48 states and the District of Columbia. For example, in 2022 it is $13,590 for a single adult person, $27,750 for a family of four and $46,630 for a family of eight.

Is it beneficial to have dual medical coverage?

Having access to two health plans can be good when making health care claims. Having two health plans can increase how much coverage you get. You can save money on your health care costs through what's known as the "coordination of benefits" provision.

Will secondary pay if primary denies?

If your primary insurance denies coverage, secondary insurance may or may not pay some part of the cost, depending on the insurance. If you do not have primary insurance, your secondary insurance may make little or no payment for your health care costs.

What plan provides both Medicare and Medicaid coverage to certain eligible beneficiaries?

Some people qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid and are called “dual eligibles.” If you have Medicare and full Medicaid coverage, most of your health care costs are likely covered. You can get your Medicare coverage through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan.

What are the disadvantages of Medicaid?

Disadvantages of Medicaid They will have a decreased financial ability to opt for elective treatments, and they may not be able to pay for top brand drugs or other medical aids. Another financial concern is that medical practices cannot charge a fee when Medicaid patients miss appointments.

What is not covered by Medicaid?

Medicaid is not required to provide coverage for private nursing or for caregiving services provided by a household member. Things like bandages, adult diapers and other disposables are also not usually covered, and neither is cosmetic surgery or other elective procedures.

How can I be eligible for Medicaid?

Medicaid beneficiaries generally must be residents of the state in which they are receiving Medicaid. They must be either citizens of the United States or certain qualified non-citizens, such as lawful permanent residents. In addition, some eligibility groups are limited by age, or by pregnancy or parenting status.

Does Medicare coverage start the month you turn 65?

The date your coverage starts depends on which month you sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period. Coverage always starts on the first of the month. If you qualify for Premium-free Part A: Your Part A coverage starts the month you turn 65.

What are Medicaid requirements?

Who Is Eligible for Medicaid?children through age 18 in families with income below 138 percent of the federal poverty line ($29,974 for a family of three in 2020);people who are pregnant and have income below 138 percent of the poverty line;certain parents or caretakers with very low income; and.More items...•

How are my health care costs reimbursed if I have Medicare and Medicaid?

When dual eligible beneficiaries have healthcare expenses, Medicare pays first and Medicaid pays last. But this is not the case for things Medicare...

How do I know if I should be dual eligible?

Beneficiaries can find out if they’re eligible for Medicaid by contacting their Medicaid office. An Internet search for Medicaid offices in a benef...

What is the income range for beneficiaries who are dual eligibles?

Generally, beneficiaries earning less than 135 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for the MSP if they also have limited savings (alt...

Can I select an insurance plan for my Medicare and Medicaid benefits?

If you are dual eligible, you are can enroll in a dual eligible special needs plan (D-SNP) that covers both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. These p...

What Is Medicare?

Before we dive into dual-eligibility, let’s start off by defining each program. In order to qualify for Medicare, the requirements are straightforward.

What Is Medicaid?

Medicaid is administered by state governments. This is unlike Medicare, which is a federal program.

Can I Qualify for Both Medicare and Medicaid?

Millions of people qualify for both entitlement programs. This is a good thing because Medicare does not cover all medical expenses. Medicare enrollees are often left with bills for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

Your Guide to Medicare and Medicaid Benefits

If you qualify for both, it is highly recommended to apply. Dual-eligibility is going to ensure the lowest possible cost to your family. Health care that Medicare does not cover is often picked up by Medicaid.

What is dual eligible Medicare?

Beneficiaries with Medicare and Medicaid are known as dual eligibles – and account for about 20 percent of Medicare beneficiaries (12.1 million people). Dual eligibles are categorized based on whether they receive partial or full Medicaid benefits. Full-benefit dual eligibles have comprehensive Medicaid coverage, ...

What is a dual eligible special needs plan?

If you are dual eligible, you are can enroll in a dual eligible special needs plan (D-SNP) that covers both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. These plans may also pay for expenses that Medicare and Medicaid don’t over individually, including over-the-counter items, hearing aids, and vision or dental care. Beneficiaries who are dual eligible can ...

Do seniors qualify for medicaid?

Many seniors who live in nursing homes are dual eligible: they qualify for Medicare based on their age, and Medicaid because of their financial circumstances.

Does Medicare cover long term care?

But this is not the case for things Medicare doesn’t cover, like long-term care . If Medicaid is covering a beneficiary’s long-term care, Medicare will still be the primary payer for any Medicare-covered services – like skilled nursing care or physical therapy.

Is Medicare the same as Medicaid?

The federal government oversees Medicare eligi bility – meaning it is the same in each state. But states set their own eligibility rules for Medicaid and the MSPs (within federal guidelines) – and income limits for these programs vary widely.

Who are the dual-eligible recipients?

People who are dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid are referred to as dual-eligible beneficiaries. Moreover, each state determines Medicaid coverage, and as a result, Medicaid benefits may differ.

Medicare Ineligibility

The Medicare eligibility requirement is that you must be 65 years old or older. If you or your spouse are 65 years old or older and have paid enough Medicare taxes through previous employment, you or your spouse may be eligible for premium-free Part A of the Medicare program (hospital coverage).

Medicaid Ineligibility

Medicaid eligibility varies depending on where a person resides, as various states have different qualifications.

Dual eligibility

A person must qualify for either partial-dual or full-dual coverage to be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.

Variations in geography

Medicaid benefits and coverage vary from one state to the next, and there are differences between them. Depending on the state, Medicaid coverage may be available to those who earn more than the standard income limits.

Medicare Part D Extra Assistance Program

Aside from Medicaid, many other programs assist with medical expenses, and government sponsors them. Extra Help, a program that assists Medicare Part D enrollees with their prescription drug costs, can be applied for by a qualified individual.

Summary

A person’s health and income level may qualify them for both Medicare and Medicaid.

Understanding what the two programs are

Just when you think that Medicare itself cannot get any more confusing, it does. But, for some Americans, it becomes more confusing in a positive way.

What is Medicare?

If you’re familiar with The Best Senior Services’ website and blogs, then you’re probably familiar with the available Medicare plans out there. But for those who are new here and wanting to learn more about the program, Medicare is a health insurance program that covers Americans who are at least 65 years old.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid has been around since 1965, the same year Medicare was implemented. It is a federal program that helps with healthcare costs for millions of Americans, like children, pregnant women, seniors, Americans with disabilities and more.

How do I qualify for Medicare and Medicaid programs?

Luckily for many, the qualifications outlined by Medicare and Medicaid are cut-and-dry, meaning you’ll have a great understanding of whether you’re eligible before you begin the application process. Those who are eligible for Medicare’s services typically tend to be at least 65 years old.

Can I qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid?

The short answer is: yes! If you’re qualified for Medicaid, you can qualify for Medicare, too, and vice versa. When you qualify for both programs, it’s known as having ”Dual Eligibility.” And for those with Dual Eligibility, there is a possibility that all of your healthcare costs will be covered.

What Is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for older people (65 and over), younger people with disabilities, and individuals who have ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease).

What Is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a federal government and state health care program for low-income individuals of any age in the U.S. This health insurance offers affordable health care options to people who can't afford to pay for medical items, services, and treatments.

What Is Dual Eligibility?

There are a variety of reasons why people may struggle to cover the costs of Medicare insurance.

Who Can Apply for Dual Eligibility?

To qualify for dual eligibility, you need to meet the enrollment criteria for both the Medicare and Medicaid program.

Part A and B Financial Help

Once you're dual eligible, you’ll be able to use your Medicaid to pay some or all of your Original Medicare premiums and health care costs.

Dual-Eligible Benefit Types

There are six types of dual-eligible beneficiaries. Each one has its own financial requirements to enroll and offers other relief from Medicare health care costs.

Dual Eligible and Medicare Advantage

Certain dual eligibles are still allowed to enroll for Medicare Advantage plans. These are called Special Needs Plans (SNPs) and are designed to cater to dual eligibles and other specific groups.

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

When you have dual enrollment, Medicare is your primary insurance that covers any costs first. Medicaid is your secondary payer. Every state has different benefits for people who qualify under dual eligibility, so it’s important that you check with your local Medicaid office.

Does Medicaid cover dental care?

Medicaid can cover a large variety of healthcare services like behavioral health for substance abuse and mental health or dental care. Medicaid also has a robust cost-sharing program that helps cover any out of pocket costs for economically disadvantaged participants.

Can seniors get medicaid?

Many seniors in the United States have dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Generally, this means that you have enrolled in Medicare, but that you qualify for Medicaid as well due to your income.

Is Medicaid a secondary insurance?

Secondary Insurance. Medicaid can fill in the gap as a secondary insurance to Medicare. Any services you have that Medicare pays for like hospital care, doctor’s visits, skilled nursing facility care, or home care, Medicare will pay for as the primary payer.

Does Medicaid pay cost sharing?

Medicaid can pay any cost-sharing charges you have. This help will depend on your income level. If the level is low enough, you could qualify for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Medicare Savings Program. If you enroll in QMB, you won’t have to pay Medicare cost-sharing fees.

Does Medicare help with prescription drugs?

Prescription drugs are some of the biggest expenses people on Medicare face, and Medicaid can help. People who meet the eligibility requirements for dual enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid automatically get enrolled in the Extra Help program.

Medicare Services & Fees

Eligible recipients of Medicare have a choice. They may enroll into either Original Medicare or into a private health plan known as Medicare Advantage . All plans cover the same basic Medicare-covered health services, but there are differences in premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and provider networks.

What Is Medicare Dual Eligible And How Do I Qualify

Most Americans understand that when they turn 65, Medicare will become their main health insurance plan. However, many Americans are less familiar with another health care program, Medicaid, and what it means if they are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.

What Is The Medicare Part B Deductible For 2021

Medicare Part B Premium and Deductible The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees will be $170.10 for 2022, an increase of $21.60 from $148.50 in 2021. The annual deductible for all Medicare Part B beneficiaries is $233 in 2022, an increase of $30 from the annual deductible of $203 in 2021.

Medicaid Vs Medicare: You Can Have Both

Medicaid and Medicare. Its hard to think of two words that cause as much confusion.

Can I Qualify For Both Medicare And Medicaid

The short answer is: yes! If youre qualified for Medicaid, you can qualify for Medicare, too, and vice versa. When you qualify for both programs, its known as having Dual Eligibility. And for those with Dual Eligibility, there is a possibility that all of your healthcare costs will be covered.

How Do Medicare Benefits And Medicaid Work Together

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services manages the social health programs called Medicare and Medicaid. These programs are specially designed to help disabled, senior, and low-income people afford health coverage. These two health insurances cover two different population sectors.

Can I Get Help With My Prescription Drugs

For many people, prescriptions are their number one health care cost. There are several ways that low-income people with both Medicare and Medicaid benefits can get extra help with their prescriptions. The first and most important way is to apply for the Social Security Administrations Extra Help program.

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Who Are The Dual-Eligible Recipients?

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People who are dual-eligible forMedicareand Medicaid are referred to as dual-eligible beneficiaries. Moreover, each state determines Medicaid coverage, and as a result, Medicaid benefits may differ. Receiving both Medicare and Medicaid can assist in lowering healthcare expenditures for individuals who are in need. According to general practice, Med...
See more on newmedicare.com

Medicare Ineligibility

  • The Medicare eligibility requirement is that you must be 65 years old or older. If you or your spouse are 65 years old or older and have paid enough Medicare taxes through previous employment, you or your spouse may be eligible for premium-free Part A of the Medicare program (hospital coverage). They may also be eligible for Medicare Part B, covering doctor visits and various other medical expenses. Some people under 65 may be eligi…
See more on newmedicare.com

Medicaid Ineligibility

  • Medicaid eligibility varies depending on where a person resides, as various states have different qualifications. Every year, Medicaid rules may change. The Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) determines every year, is used to determine a person’s eligibility for a variety of government benefits. In addition to the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, the FPL also applies t…
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Dual Eligibility

  • A person must qualify for either partial-dual or full-dual coverage to be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. The amount of Medicaid assistance a person receives determines their eligibility for partial-dual coverage. The following are some examples of various coverage: 1. The premium for Part A (if applicable) 2. The premium for Part B 3. Coinsurances 4. Copayments 5. Deductibles The benefits available to those who qualify for both Medic…
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Variations in Geography

  • Medicaid benefits and coverage vary from one state to the next, and there are differences between them. Depending on the state, Medicaid coverage may be available to those who earn more than the standard income limits. The Medicaid website can assist a person in determining which services are available to them in their area based on their geographic location.
See more on newmedicare.com

Medicare Part D Extra Assistance Program

  • Aside from Medicaid, many other programs assist with medical expenses, and government sponsors them. Extra Help, a program that assists Medicare Part D enrollees with their prescription drug costs, can be applied for by a qualified individual. To be eligible for Extra Help, a person’s combined investments, real estate property, and savings must total no more than $29,160 if they are married and live with their spouse, or $14,610 if they are sin…
See more on newmedicare.com

Summary

  • A person’s health and income level may qualify them for both Medicare and Medicaid. Meanwhile, Medicare will generally cover healthcare costs initially, and Medicaid assists with out-of-pocket and non-covered expenses. Medicaid eligibility varies by state, as well as the income level restrictions.
See more on newmedicare.com

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