The success of integrated care initiatives for Medicare-Medicaid enrollees will depend in large part on the skills and knowledge of state Medicaid staff. Knowledge of Medicare policy, managed care oversight, data analysis and reporting, and communication strategies will be critical to program implementation.

This technical assistance brief examines key areas where states will need to build their internal capacity as they pursue integrated care programs for Medicare-Medicaid enrollees. Focus areas include: basic organizational capacity (leadership, staffing, and knowledge); contract development; data analysis and information systems; stakeholder communication; rate setting; and quality measurement.