Strengths of the Medicaid Program

Medicaid was established in the United States in 1960s. It is federally funded government health care insurance managed by individual state governments in the United States. Medicaid is available for individuals from low-income and limited-resource households. Medicaid is also available to pregnant women who do not have general medical insurance. There are substantial strengths to the Medicaid program.

Eligibility Strengths

• Individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are eligible for Medicaid benefit to help with medical expenses in every state in the U.S. All children who are eligible for Medicaid benefits may receive these benefits in any state in which they live. These eligible children may also receive home-based and community health care regarding special needs. Eligibility strengths also include long-term care in nursing facilities.

Coverage Strengths

• Medicaid offers participants a comprehensive benefit package in which they may engage providers of their choice. In general, participants are allowed to make a choice from two different health plans. Medicaid coverage also means individuals don't have to pay out-of-pocket fees for a variety of services.

Medicaid Program Strengths

• In the wake of Medicaid expansion, there will only be a need to create new eligibility categories and not a whole new system for Medicaid. On the operational and fiscal side, Medicaid costs less than private insurance. States can bargain more efficiently for plans and providers when there is a larger amount of Medicaid beneficiaries. Medicaid expansion allows states to receive federal matching funds.