Medicaid By: Allen Jiles

History of Medicaid Medicaid was created by the Social Security Amendments of 1965 It was created as an entitlement program to help states provide medical coverage for low-income families and other individuals who meet eligibility requirements

What is Medicaid? A health program for families and individuals with low income and resources It is funded by the state and federal governments Managed by the states(may qualify in one state but not the other)

Medicaid vs Medicare Medicare is a social insurance program funded at the federal level For people age 65 or older, under 65 with certain disabilities and people of all ages with end stage renal disease Medicaid is a needs-based social welfare program. Eligibility is largely on income. Income plays no role in Medicare coverage

What does Medicaid cover? Laboratory and X-ray services Inpatient hospital services Health screenings for children and treatment if medical problems are identified Comprehensive dental and vision services for children Family planning services and supplies Long-term care services and supports Medical and surgical dental services for adults

Pediatric and family nurse dental services for adults Services provided In health clinics Nurse-midwife services Nursing facility services for adults Home health care services for certain people Prescription drugs

Buy-Ins Some states have “buy-in” programs that allow people with disabilities with incomes above regular Medicaid limits to enroll in the Medicaid program. Children with disabilities can qualify for Medicaid either under these disability-related rules, or based on family income

Expansion in 2014 Starting in 2014, the Affordable Care Act will expand the Medicaid program to cover people under age 65, including people with disabilities, with income of about $15,000 for a single individual. This expansion helps low-income adults who have disabilities but don’t meet the disability requirements of the SSI program

Special coverage for Women Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Medicaid programs are available to eligible women who are diagnosed with either breast and/or cervical caner through the state screening program All states must cover pregnant women with incomes up to about $20,000 as an individual. Most states cover pregnant women under Medicaid with higher incomes, and some states cover pregnant women under CHIP.

Coverage for children If you’re enrolled in Medicaid when your baby is born, your child is automatically eligible for Medicaid until your child’s first birthday. All states provide coverage for children through Medicaid and CHIP. Your children are likely to be eligible for coverage if your income is up to about $45,000 per year (family of four)

Resources http://www.healthcare.gov/index.html http://www.medicaid.gov/