What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families. It offers free or low-cost healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospitals stays, and prescription drugs, to those who meet specific eligibility criteria. Medicaid serves as a vital safety net, ensuring access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, children, elderly, and disabled individuals. The program is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in partnership with states, giving each state flexibility to design and implement its Medicaid program within federal guidelines. Medicaid plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare disparities among those who would otherwise face difficulties in accessing crucial medical services.