Effects of Medicaid Coverage of Medicare Cost Sharing on Access to Care

Since its enactment in 1965, Medicaid has played a role in paying for some Medicare premiums and cost sharing for certain beneficiaries who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

Current interest in redesigning Medicare’s cost-sharing policies provides an opportunity to reexamine the roles of both Medicare and Medicaid in providing assistance for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Future Commission work will focus on eligibility and enrollment issues related to the Medicare Savings Programs and areas where Medicaid policy changes can improve access for low-income Medicare beneficiaries.