This issue brief analyzes Medicare and Medicaid spending on the "dual eligibles" -- those who are simultaneously enrolled in both programs. These seniors and non-elderly people with disabilities are among the nation's most vulnerable populations. They are generally low-income, in poor health and have considerable health care needs, making them one of the most costly populations covered by public health programs.

The brief fills in important gaps in information about dual eligibles by analyzing the demographic and health characteristics of the dual eligible population and their patterns of service utilization and spending under both the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Issue Brief (.pdf)