One quarter of all Medicare beneficiaries spend 20% or more of their income on out-of-pocket health expenses and premiums.  Studies indicate that this increases the need for Medicaid, especially for those with functional or cognitive impairment who use long-term services and supports (LTSS).  Many end up with high credit card debt relative to having to use their credit card for health care expenditures.  And if they do not receive assistance, it could lead to their inability to pay for food, rent, or utilities. To read more about this study and their findings, click here.