Grant Award Summary

Weill Medical College of Cornell University received a $720,523 Project Grant from the National Institute on Aging under the Aging Research program (CFDA 93.866) awarded June 15, 2026, with completion scheduled for March 31, 2031. This research initiative will evaluate the impact of Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (Integrated D-SNPs) on healthcare utilization, quality of care, mortality outcomes, and chronic disease management among the population of dual eligible individuals with disabilities who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid coverage. The study addresses a critical evidence gap, as Integrated D-SNP enrollment among this vulnerable population grew 12-fold between 2018 and 2024, yet limited empirical data exists regarding program effectiveness and implementation outcomes.

The research will examine how these Medicare Advantage plans—which coordinate Medicare and Medicaid benefits and streamline administrative processes through state Medicaid agency contracts—impact health outcomes for individuals with physical, intellectual, developmental, cognitive, or mental disabilities. This investigation is particularly significant given that dual eligibles with disabilities experience high prevalence of multiple chronic conditions, substantial long-term services and supports needs, and preventable premature mortality rates of 40-60 percent. By generating evidence on Integrated D-SNP performance, outcomes, and operational effectiveness, this project aims to inform policy and practice improvements for better serving this population's complex healthcare and support service needs.