Palmetto State News

On March 18, 2024, U.S. Senator Tim Scott and a group of colleagues introduced the Delivering Unified Access to Lifesaving Services (DUALS) Act of 2024, a significant piece of legislation aimed at improving healthcare options for approximately 12 million Americans jointly enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid, also known as dual eligibles.

Senator Scott, a member of the Senate Duals Working Group, emphasized the importance of enhancing the connections between Medicare and Medicaid to ensure that dual eligibles receive streamlined access to high-quality healthcare. He stated, “Many states lack fully integrated care between Medicare and Medicaid, leaving dually eligible individuals with fragmented care and the headaches of confusing bureaucracy. We can, and must, do better for this vulnerable population.”

The DUALS Act of 2024 is a result of two years of data collection and feedback from the healthcare community, during which Senator Scott and his colleagues engaged with healthcare providers and patients to identify shortcomings in the current system of care for dual eligibles and explore ways to enhance patient health outcomes.

The legislation has garnered support from a variety of organizations, including Centerlight Healthcare, Santa Clara Family Health Plan, and the American Kidney Fund, among others, highlighting the broad consensus on the need for reforms in the healthcare system to better serve dual eligibles.

The introduction of the DUALS Act of 2024 signals a concerted effort by Senator Scott and his colleagues to address the challenges faced by dual eligibles and improve the coordination and quality of care they receive. By bridging the gaps between Medicare and Medicaid, the legislation aims to ensure that patients nationwide can access the high-quality care they deserve.