What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are both federal health insurance programs, but they serve different populations and have different qualifications. Medicare is available to people 65 and over, regardless of income. It covers hospital visits, doctor visits, some preventative care, home health care, and prescription drugs. It is paid for by a combination of taxes and premiums paid by individuals. Medicaid, on the other hand, is a health care program for low-income individuals and families. It is jointly funded by the federal government and the state in which it operates. It can cover the same services as Medicare, as well as nursing home care and long-term care. However, the coverage and eligibility requirements vary from state to state. In California, Medicaid is called Medi-Cal and is available to families who meet certain income and resource requirements. For example, an individual must make less than 133% of the Federal Poverty Level and have less than $2,000 in countable assets to qualify for the program. Medi-Cal also offers additional benefits that are not available under Medicare such as vision and dental care. In short, Medicare is available to all individuals 65 and over, regardless of income, while Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) is available only to those who meet specific income and resource requirements. Both programs can help people pay for health care costs, but the extent of coverage and eligibility requirements vary.

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What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

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