Medicaid is a vital public assistance program in the United States designed to provide health care coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. It operates as a cooperative endeavor between federal and state governments and was established under Title XIX of the Social Security Act of 1965.
Key Features
Jointly Funded: Medicaid programs are funded jointly by the federal and state governments. The federal government provides a portion of the funding, while states cover the remaining costs. This partnership allows for flexibility in how each state administers its program.
Eligibility: Eligibility for Medicaid is determined based on income, family size, disability, and other factors. Each state sets its own criteria within federal guidelines. Generally, it serves families with children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and individuals with disabilities.
Benefits: Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, including hospital visits, doctor’s appointments, long-term medical care, and more. States are required to provide certain ‘mandatory’ benefits, and they may choose to provide additional ‘optional’ benefits.
Additional Resources
To learn more about your state’s Medicaid program and how to apply, visit the official Medicaid website.
For specifics on covered services and eligibility requirements, refer to the detailed sections under the rules governed by Title XIX at your state’s healthcare agency’s website or the comprehensive rule sections at the U.S. Social Security Administration.
