Examining how the switch from Medicaid to Medicare affects healthcare access and costs for older adults.
The Transition from Medicaid to Medicare and Impacts on Disparities in Coverage and Care
This study looks at the difficulties people with low incomes face when they switch from Medicaid to Medicare at age 65, especially how it affects their healthcare costs and access, and it aims to help improve support for these individuals as they grow older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10980545 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from Medicaid to Medicare at age 65, particularly those with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level. It focuses on the financial burdens that arise due to higher out-of-pocket costs and limited access to subsidies for Medicare coverage. By analyzing data from Medicaid and Medicare claims, the study aims to identify disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups during this transition. The findings could inform policies to improve support for vulnerable populations as they age.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are transitioning from Medicaid to Medicare, particularly those with low incomes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not transitioning from Medicaid to Medicare or those who are already receiving adequate support and care under Medicare may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved financial assistance programs that reduce healthcare costs for older adults transitioning to Medicare.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated disparities in healthcare access among different racial and ethnic groups, suggesting that this study's focus on the transition from Medicaid to Medicare is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fung, Vicki — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Fung, Vicki
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.