Ohioans urged to review dual health plans

By Farah Siddiqi

Ohioans who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid could be missing out on added benefits to make health care easier to navigate.

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans combine coverage and care coordination under one umbrella, helping older adults and people with disabilities manage costs and appointments more efficiently.

Marian Cabanillas, Community and State CEO for UnitedHealthcare, said the plans are designed to integrate the two programs for those who need extra support due to income, disability, or chronic health conditions.

"That coordination makes sure that individuals can have an easier time utilizing their benefits, which of course ultimately keeps their out-of-pocket costs lower," Cabanillas explained. "We encourage folks to make sure what they are aware of what they're eligible for so that they can enroll."

Enrollment in dual plans has more than doubled since 2020 to more than 5 million nationwide, yet research shows roughly half of those eligible are still not signed up. A new monthly Special Enrollment Period allows eligible Ohioans to align their Medicare and Medicaid plans more easily.

Open enrollment also runs through Dec. 7, giving residents time to compare options. In Ohio, navigators are available to guide people through the process.

Grace Wagner, director of health initiatives for the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, said Get Covered Ohio offers free, unbiased help.

"We are certified by the federal government and we are also licensed in the state of Ohio," Wagner pointed out. "Navigators through Get Covered Ohio are here to provide free and unbiased assistance to anyone looking to find coverage and assess their options."

The Get Covered Ohio website remains active, though advocates warn ongoing federal budget negotiations could reduce navigator funding and other safety net programs. Experts stressed even those satisfied with their current coverage should review their plans annually, since benefits and eligibility can change.