In health insurance, what does 'dual eligibility' refer to?

Dual eligibility refers to individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid simultaneously. This situation typically involves seniors aged 65 or older, or individuals under 65 who have certain disabilities, who meet the eligibility requirements for Medicare, which is a federal health insurance program, and Medicaid, which is a state and federal program that assists with medical costs for individuals with limited income and resources.

Having dual eligibility allows these individuals to maximize their healthcare benefits. Medicare generally covers a wide array of healthcare services, but it may not cover all expenses entirely, especially for out-of-pocket costs. Medicaid can help cover what Medicare does not pay, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, as well as additional services that Medicare does not provide. This comprehensive coverage helps ensure that dual eligibles have access to necessary medical care without excessive financial burden.

Other choices do not accurately capture the essence of 'dual eligibility.' Eligibility for public health programs only, receiving priority in hospital admissions, or having coverage from multiple private insurers do not reflect the specific circumstances of being eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.