Learn About the Medicaid Program

Americans in need of affordable health insurance can look into the Medicaid program. It is a federally funded health insurance plan that is administered by state governments. Through Medicaid, low-income residents and households can receive the medical services that they need without paying high premium costs. In 2019, 65 million Americans have had their health care needs met through the program. 

Before applying for the program, it is important to understand its benefits. The federal government mandates that certain coverage options and services be available to Medicaid recipients. However, there are a number of benefits that are considered optional and states are not required to offer them.

While you are learning about how Medicaid can assist you, it can be beneficial to review information about other assistance programs. These additional options can provide you with necessary financial assistance. Depending on various qualification criteria, you can qualify for loans, grants and temporary aid.  

About Medicaid Service Centers 

Medicaid service centers are operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  Formally, they are known as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The CMS manages Medicaid, Medicare and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are responsible for ensuring that government health programs follow the regulations and laws of the Affordable Care Act. They also ensure that federal and state health care marketplaces are following federal laws. Moreover, the CMS provides a variety of information about helpful programs to the public. 

Find Out About Medicaid Program Benefits

Recipients of Medicaid receive benefits that are mandated by the federal government. These are services that every state is required to offer as part of its Medicaid program. Some of the health care services that are considered mandatory include:

• Transportation to medical care facilities. 
• X-ray and laboratory services. 
• Physician visits.
• Inpatient and outpatient treatment.
• Diagnostic screenings.
• Pediatric or family nurse practitioner care.

The above services are offered nationally and can be found within any state Medicaid program. Different states may offer additional medical services. However, not all states provide these optional services. Some benefits that certain states offer recipients are:

• Prescription medication.
• Dental plans.
• Vision checkups. 
• Services for speech or language disorders.
• Chiropractic care.
• Prosthetics services. 

Medicare Versus Medicaid Benefits 

Medicare and Medicaid are two government health care programs that are often confused. The primary difference between the two is that Medicare primarily serves elderly residents and those who are disabled while Medicaid benefits all qualifying low-income households. 

Moreover, recipients of Medicare may also receive Medicaid if they qualify. More than seven million seniors and residents with disabilities are eligible for and enrolled in both health care programs. Qualifying for both programs is referred to as being “dually eligible.” Beneficiaries of both can reduce their Medicare costs. Hypothetically, Medicare expenses can be eliminated under dual eligibility.    

Under the Medicaid program, many medical procedures and health services are covered. For instance, physician visits and laboratory or diagnostic services can be obtained at a low cost or even for free. The exact benefits and their price points will depend on which state you live in. Moreover, each state is permitted to offer additional services to recipients. 

In addition to the numerous services provided by state Medicaid programs, the costs of these services vary as well. Some states do not charge for basic health care while others require payment of small premium. These costs are usually based on income level. Moreover, certain states charge copayments or other insurance fees. Fortunately, there are limits to how much beneficiaries of Medicaid can be charged each year. 

After you download our helpful guide, you will be able to read through a lot of useful information. You will discover the various programs that can benefit you. In addition, our guide will help you understand the programs and services that you are eligible for. In the next several days, you will receive emails in your inbox with this information. In the meantime, you can review the basic information about Medicaid, the benefits of the program, service centers and other programs and low-cost services that you can apply for.

Learn About Government Grants

Government grants are utilized by various state and local programs and organizations to assist low-income residents. However, these grants are typically not given to beneficiaries directly. Rather, local organizations and state departments receive federal government grants in order to fund benefits programs that help low-income households. In certain instances, these organizations do provide one-time financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible applicants. Otherwise, residents receive assistance with housing, food, and other costs. 

Federal grants are not only for low-income families. Other types of programs are available to assist financially. These additional programs help to decrease costs of certain fixed expenses like rent and utilities. One of these programs is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which assists with heating and cooling costs. In addition, eligible households can obtain food assistance from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. Furthermore, many can receive rental assistance from the Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly, Section 8).

Depending on where you live, there may be other local and state organizations that can provide financial assistance. For instance, many communities have food banks and obtain food or certain groceries. Food banks are able to provide eligible low-income families with nutritious meals weekly, bi-weekly monthly. 

Different states, cities and local communities have varying resources for low-income households. Thus, it is important to contact your nearby Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a full list of services. 

Find Out About Low-Cost Government Programs 

Low-income residents who need assistance with housing may be able to get their rental costs reduced through government programs. Certain programs provide rental subsidies to landlords so that tenants can contribute a lower rent payment. On the other hand, you may qualify for an affordable home loan. Several programs can make obtaining a mortgage with a low income or credit core possible. 

Additionally, there are options for decreasing your cable bill. Depending on where you live, your income level and cable preferences, you might be able to obtain a lower rate. Many companies that provide cable and internet services often have discounts and affordable options. 

Moreover, you might be able to obtain car insurance discounts and greatly reduce your monthly rate depending on what you qualify for. By obtaining a discount on your car insurance policy, you will be able to reduce your overall monthly costs. Conversely, you can request quotes from several insurance agencies and then select a new, affordable policy.