Ohio launches coordinated care program for those eligible for Medicare and Medicaid

About 115,000 residents who receive health coverage through both Medicare and Medicaid soon will be moved into managed-care plans under a three-year demonstration known as MyCare Ohio (Source: “Ohio seeks better managed-care, lower costs,” Columbus Dispatch, June 22, 2014)

The group that will be joining managed-care plans represent nearly two-thirds of so-called dual eligibles. Those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid tend to be among the sickest and most expensive to care for and include many living in nursing homes. Statewide, dual eligibles make up 14 percent of the Medicaid population, yet account for 34 percent of costs. By coordinating services, state officials hope to improve care and save money.

The group that will be enrolling in MyCare Ohio has received two mailings from the state and had until yesterday to sign up for a plan, or one will be assigned to them after MyCare enrollment starts on July 1. They will then have 90 days to change plans.