Can Someone With Medicare Also Use STAR+PLUS?

Medicare and Medicaid are different programs, and many people have both. Understanding the roles clears up a lot of confusion.

Medicare vs Medicaid

Medicare is federal health insurance mainly for people 65 and older; it does not generally pay for long-term assisted-living services. Medicaid, through programs like STAR+PLUS HCBS, is what can help cover long-term assisted-living services for eligible people.

Being 'dual-eligible'

People who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called dual-eligible. In this case, Medicare typically handles acute medical care and prescriptions, while STAR+PLUS HCBS can help with long-term services and supports.

Why it matters for assisted living

Because Medicare generally does not pay for ongoing assisted-living care, families relying on Medicare alone often discover a gap. STAR+PLUS HCBS can help fill it for eligible members. See what STAR+PLUS covers.

Frequently asked questions

Can someone with Medicare also have STAR+PLUS?

Yes. Many people are dual-eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare handles acute care and prescriptions, while STAR+PLUS HCBS can help with long-term assisted-living services for eligible members.

Does Medicare pay for assisted living?

Medicare generally does not pay for long-term assisted-living services. Medicaid programs like STAR+PLUS HCBS are what can help cover those services for eligible people.