What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is jointly-funded federal-state partnership that is administered by the states. Medicaid provides health care coverage to certain low-income people and families. Whether you qualify for Medicaid may depend on your age; whether you’re pregnant, disabled, or blind; your income and resources; and whether you’re a U.S. citizen. Each state has a unique set of eligibility rules and benefits covered.

Medicaid coverage for children is available in every state for children living below the federal poverty level ($18,310 for a family of 3 in 2009) and children up to age 21 are eligible. In addition, states must provide Medicaid coverage for children up to age 6 with incomes below 133% FPL ($24,413 for a family of 3 in 2009). The Medicaid program served 29 million children in 2006.

Medicaid pays for a full set of services for children, including preventive care, screening and treatment of health conditions, physician and hospital visits, and vision and dental care. In most cases, these services are provided at little to no cost to the family.

How to Apply

Each state has different rules about Medicaid eligibility and services. If you or someone in your family needs health care, you should apply for Medicaid even if you aren’t sure if you qualify, and let a qualified caseworker in your state to help evaluate your situation.

Click here to find the Medicaid program in your state, or make a free call to 1-877-KIDS NOW (1-877-543-7669) to discuss your situation with someone from your state.