What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a government-run program in the United States that provides health insurance to eligible low-income individuals and families. It is jointly funded by the federal and state governments and is designed to assist those who might not have access to affordable health care otherwise. Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, including hospital visits, outpatient care, long-term care, and preventive services.
Eligibility for Medicaid
Eligibility for Medicaid varies by state, but some common factors include:
- Income Level: Applicants must have a low income, typically defined as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). In many states, this may be below 138% of the FPL.
- Household Composition: Eligibility can depend on the size of the household, affecting income thresholds.
- Age and Disability: Certain groups, such as children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities, may have different eligibility criteria.
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of the state where they are applying for Medicaid.
Many states have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which increased accessibility for more residents. To determine eligibility, individuals can visit their state’s Medicaid website or the HealthCare.gov portal.