What’s Medicaid
Medicaid is a government-funded medical assistance program for low-income individuals who are unable to pay for care and who meet the eligibility guidelines. When a patient or an individual is Medicaid eligible, he or she will be entitled to healthcare benefits such as medical check-ups, hospital accommodation, preventive care services, mental healthcare, and other essential services – all of which will be funded by the state.
Medicaid is a join federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid may also cover services not normal covered by Medicare (like long term supports and services and personal services). Each state has different rules about eligibility and applying for Medicaid. If you qualify for Medicaid in your state, you automatically qualify for Extra Help paying your Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D).
You may be eligible for Medicaid if you have limited income and are any of these:
- 65 or older
- A child under 19
- Pregnant
- Living with a disability
- A parent or adult caring for a child
- An adult without dependant children (in certain states)
- An eligible immigrant
In many states, more parents and other adults can get coverage now. If you were turned down in the past, you can try again and may qualify now.
When you enroll, you can get the health care benefits you need, like:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Long-term services and supports
- Preventive care, including immunizations, mammograms, colonscopies, and other needed care
- Prenatal and maternity care
- Mental health care
- Necessary medication
- Vision and dental care (for children)
You should apply for Medicaid if you or someone in your family needs health care. If you aren’t sure whether you qualify, a qualified caseworker in your state can look at your situation. Contact your local or state Medicaid office to see if you qualify and to apply. To get information about your state’s Medicaid program, visit Healthcare.gov/do-i-qualify-for-medicaid.