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Master Beneficiary Summary File (MBSF) - Base Segment Files

Medicare

Description

Our Master Beneficiary Summary File (MBSF) - Base Segment (A/B/C/D) files have the following data about individuals enrolled in Medicare between 1999 and 2021:

  • beneficiary demographics;
  • eligibility status; and
  • plan enrollment.

For 1991 - 1998 data, refer to the Denominator (DN) Files.

Variables Summary

The table below lists variable categories for and some key variables in MBSF - Base Segment data. For a comprehensive list of variables, review the MBSF - Base Segment data dictionary.

Demographics

Age, Beneficiary Identification Number, Date of Birth, Date of Death, Gender, Race, Residence County Code, Residence State, Residence Zip Code

Eligibility & Enrollment

Dual Eligibility Status, Monthly Enrollment Counts (A/B/C/D), Part C Plan and Enrollment Information, Part D Low-Income Cost Sharing, Part D Plan and Enrollment Information, Reasons for Entitlement, State Buy-In Indicators

Years Available

1999 - 2021

File Update Frequency

Information icon.
  • COVID Studies: Monthly

  • Non-COVID Studies: Quarterly or Annual

Data Dictionary Link

Visit the Data Documentation Page

NIA Data Partners Offering MBSF - Base

CE, HRS, LLFS, NSHAP, PT, PSAD, PSID, RADC, UFOVT, WLS

NIA Data Partners Not Offering MBSF - Base

BLSA, HABC, NHAS, NHATS, NLTCS, UAS

Additional Resources