MEDICAID

Medicaid is a program that pays for medical assistance for certain individuals and families with low incomes and resources. It originates from title XIX of Social Security Act. It is jointly funded by Federal and State governments to assist states in furnishing medical assistance to eligible needy persons. Medicaid is the largest source of funding for medical and health-related services for America’s poorest people and covers 36 million individuals.

Within certain federal guidelines, each state operates its own Medicaid Program. Thus each states Medicaid Program has its own features, benefits, costs, and regulations. Within broad national guidelines established by federal statutes, regulations, and policies, each state.

Establishes its own eligibility standards.
Determines the type, amount, duration, and scope of services.
Sets the rate of payment for services.
Administers its own program.

Medicaid policies for eligibility, services, and payment are complex and vary considerably, even among States of similar size or geographic proximity. Thus, a person who is eligible for Medicaid in one State may not be eligible in another State, and the services provided by one State may differ considerably in amount, duration, or scope from services provided in similar or neighboring State. Generally the State offers coverage to one or more of the following groups.

Mandatory Needy
Categorically Needy
Medically Needy