Mathematica Policy Research has released a brief examining opportunities to improve dual eligibles' care through managed care plans in Medicare.  The authors offer background on dual eligibles and state efforts to manage their care.  The brief also examines opportunities for expanding managed care for dual eligibles under the national health care reform law.

From the report:

Only July 8, 2011, CMS announced three new initiatives to assist states in improving care for dual eligibles.  Two new financial models to support state efforts to coordinate care for dual eligibles.  A capitated model in which a state, CMS, and a health plan enter into a three-way contract, and the plan receives a prospective blended payment to provide comprehensive, coordinated care.  A managed fee-for-service model in which a state and CMS enter into an agreement that would permit the state to share in Medicare savings for care coordination initiatives.

Full report: Improving Care for Dual Eligibles: Opportunities for Medicare Managed Care Plans (PDF | 183.71 KB)

Mathematica Policy Research.  (2011).  Improving care for dual eligibles: opportunities for Medicare managed care plans.  Verdier, J.