What Are The Differences Between Medicare And Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are both government-funded health insurance programs in the United States, but they have some key differences. Here's a breakdown:

Eligibility:

Medicare: Generally for people 65 years and older, or under 65 with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Image of Medicare logoOpens in a new window

1000logos.net

Medicare logo

Medicaid: For people with limited income and resources, regardless of age (children, pregnant women, low-income adults, and people with disabilities can qualify).

Image of Medicaid logoOpens in a new window

patelfamilymedical.com

Medicaid logo

Funding:

Medicare: Funded by a combination of payroll taxes and general tax revenue.

Medicaid: Funded jointly by the federal government and individual states. States have flexibility in designing their Medicaid programs, so eligibility and benefits can vary.

Cost:

Medicare: Beneficiaries typically pay premiums, deductibles, and copayments for covered services. There are also different parts of Medicare with different costs and coverage.

Medicaid: Generally, beneficiaries do not pay premiums for covered services. Some states may require small copayments for certain services.

Coverage:

Medicare: Covers a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital care, doctor visits, preventive care, and some prescription drugs. However, it does not cover some long-term care services or dental care.

Medicaid: Covers a wide range of services similar to Medicare, but also includes some long-term care services and dental care for children in most states. Coverage for adults can vary depending on the state.

Administration:

Medicare: Administered by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Medicaid: Administered jointly by CMS and individual states.