How to Compare & Contrast the Benefits & Drawbacks of Receiving a Medicaid Entitlement

Medicaid is a federally-funded, state-administered health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. When determining whether or not to apply for, and accept, Medicaid, several factors should be taken into consideration.

Need

• Determine first whether or not there is a real need for you or your family to receive Medicaid. The program can be beneficial to those suffering through long periods of financial insolvency. However, if you think your economic circumstances will improve shortly, applying for the program may prove to be more tedious and time-consuming than it is worth.

Coverage

• Another factor to keep in mind is what type of coverage you're looking for with Medicaid. While it has the advantage of being nearly free to the recipient, reimbursement rates can be so low for physicians that they do not accept such insurance. If your family needs to see specific doctors who don't accept Medicaid, this can be a serious drawback.

Stigma

• Finally, some individuals feel there is a stigma attached to seeking and accepting government aid in any form. You must decide whether or not you fit that profile before applying to receive Medicaid.