What Medicaid Does and Doesn't Cover

How Medicaid Works

Good health should not only be a privileged given to the wealthy. Medicaid is a state-sponsored program that allows you to get the medicine and medical supplies you need for free or for a fraction of the cost, depending on your eligibility.

What is Medicaid exactly and how does it affect you? In essence, Medicaid is a state program for people who can't afford to pay for medical care.

Medicaid doesn't actually give you money, but directly pays you health care provider. There are many reasons that people are on the Medicaid program. Sometimes the financial burden of medical expenses is overwhelming. It is important to understand the criteria and eligibility requirements for the Medicaid program. You may be able to take advantage of this program, and receive assistance with your medical problem.

You may be covered by Medicaid if you have high medical bills, you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or if you meet certain income, resource, age, or disability requirements. Medicaid will allow you get the help you need to get and stay healthy, no matter what your financial situation. How do you determine if you are eligible for Medicaid or not?

Will You Be Covered?

Unfortunately, because of budget restraints and the overwhelming costs of medicine and health care, Medicaid can't provide medical assistance for all poor people. This can be difficult because Medicaid must make the decision about who they will assist with health care costs. To help decide who has the greatest need, a complex formula has been established that takes into account your financial situation as well as the extent of your medical needs. To be considered for Medicaid, you must fall into a designated eligibility group.