Medicare & Medicaid
There are two medical programs run by the U.S. government. One, Medicare, is paid for contributions from workers' paychecks. The cost of the means-tested program for low-income folks, Medicaid, is split between the federal and state governments, though their general funds.
Medicare pays for most of the cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, doctors' visits, labratory expenses, prescription drugs, and much other medical care for older and disabled Americans, but it still leaves almost half of all medical costs unpaid. Most people need a medigap insurance policy or Medicare managed care plan (Medicare Part C) to cover the gaps in Medicare.
For those with low income and assets, Medicaid can pay for medical expenses for who don't qualify for Medicare -- or can cover the gaps in Medicare for those who do.
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Medicare and Medicaid: What's the Difference?
Medicare and Medicaid are very different: Medicaid is a federal need-based program, while Medicare is a federal entitlement program based on your employment history. You may qualify for and receive coverage from both Medicare and Medicaid.
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Current Federal Poverty Level for Determining Eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid Benefits - 2013
Here are the FPLs for each state, plus the multiples on which many federal and state benefits are based.
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Best Medicare and Medicaid Websites
Whether you need general information about Medicare or Medicaid, have specific questions, or want to apply for one of these programs, these are the best places to start on the Internet.
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Medicaid Basics: Eligibility and Coverage
Medicaid is a program that provides very low-cost or free health care to some adults and children with limited incomes.
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Appealing a Medicaid Denial for a Service or Treatment
If you receive a notice of action that you are being denied Medicaid, appeal.
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When Will Medicaid Pay for a Nursing Home or Assisted Living?
Here's an introduction to Medicaid's complicated rules on eligibility for nursing homes and home health care.
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Nolo's book covers all of Medicare's programs in great detail, as well as Medicaid rules for seniors and persons with disabilities.
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