Medicaid Coverage

While Medicare is strictly a federal health insurance program for people 65 and over and for those with certain disabilities, Medicaid is a program run by both the states and the federal government. Medicaid was set up in 1965 to provide health insurance for the poor, children, pregnant women, and the disabled.

Unlike Medicare, Medicaid recipients do not need to be elderly. Qualifications for receiving Medicaid vary from state to state, especially as to the level of income under which one qualifies, but generally speaking if you are poor and unable to obtain medical insurance in the general marketplace, you probably qualify for Medicaid.

This is especially true of you have children and have a limited income or it you receive or are eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you’re pregnant and meet the eligibility requirements then you are a prime candidate to receive Medicaid. If you are a family of our which makes less than $23,225 a year you probably qualify for Medicaid. Also, if your family assets total less than $2,000 or if you receive adoption assistance or foster care assistance you will probably qualify.

What all does Medicaid cover? Medicaid covers doctor and dentist visits, as well as clinic and hospital services. It also covers nursing home care and home health care as well as family planning services and prenatal care. Medicaid also covers pediatric care, mental health care, prescription drugs and optometrist services and eyeglasses.

Since Medicaid is state run you will need to check the services provided by your state as well as the programs which your state covers. Some states require Medicaid recipients to join an HMO-style organization for health care – again, you need to check out your individual state’s Medicaid program for details as to how the program works where you live.