What is Medicaid and Who Does It Serve?

Medicaid is a state-managed, federally supported program that provides low-cost or no-cost health coverage to people who qualify based on income and other factors. While each state designs its own benefits and eligibility rules, Medicaid commonly serves groups such as:

Pregnant women and parents with low income

Children, including those in foster care

Seniors and people with disabilities

Each state decides the full range of benefits that it covers under Medicaid

Some states also expand coverage to other low-income individuals, with or without children.

Types of Medicaid Plans

Depending on your state, you may have access to various plan types, including:

Medicaid:

State-run health insurance for eligible low-income individuals.

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs):

For those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, often offering extra benefits.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP):

Affordable coverage for infants, children, and teens to support their development.

How to Apply for Medicaid

Medicaid eligibility rules vary by state, so it’s important to check with your state’s Medicaid office. You can contact them directly or visit your state’s Medicaid website to apply and find out if you qualify.

Looking for the federal government’s Medicaid website?
Look here at Medicaid.gov