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Medicare and Medicaid Integration

Distinct Medicare and Medicaid rules, funding streams, and service delivery systems can create barriers that increase costs and worsen outcomes for people who are jointly enrolled in the programs. We support correcting this fragmentation through policies that offer meaningful choice; reduce disparities in access to and quality of care; rely on active and informed enrollee participation; include robust safeguards and oversight; offer clear enrollee and provider education about options for accessing integrated care; establish unified grievance and appeals processes; ensure seamless access to data; and provide person-centered care coordination and care management.

Fixing the Appeals Process

In Fixing the Appeals Process, the case study contrasts two beneficiary experiences to show how fragmented versus integrated systems impact access to care. Mr. H’s story illustrates the confusion and delays that arise when Medicare and Medicaid appeals operate separately, leaving him caught between two plans and unsure how to secure coverage for a medically necessary wheelchair feature. In contrast, Mrs. Z benefits from an integrated appeals system that streamlines decision-making and reduces administrative burden, ultimately improving her access to needed services. Together, these examples underscore the importance of aligning Medicare and Medicaid processes and inform policy recommendations aimed at simplifying appeals and strengthening care coordination.

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Fixing the Appeals Process

In Fixing the Appeals Process, the case study contrasts two beneficiary experiences to show how fragmented versus integrated systems impact access to care. Mr. H’s story illustrates the confusion and delays that arise when Medicare and Medicaid appeals operate separately, leaving him caught between two plans and unsure how to secure coverage for a medically necessary wheelchair feature. In contrast, Mrs. Z benefits from an integrated appeals system that streamlines decision-making and reduces administrative burden, ultimately improving her access to needed services. Together, these examples underscore the importance of aligning Medicare and Medicaid processes and inform policy recommendations aimed at simplifying appeals and strengthening care coordination.