What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

They sound alike, but Medicare and Medicaid are two different programs. Many people qualify for both, and that is exactly who a dual plan is built for.

Medicare, in plain words

Medicare is a federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, and for some younger people with disabilities. It is based on your age or your work history, not your income. It has parts for hospital care, doctor visits, and prescription drugs.

Medicaid, in plain words

Medicaid is a program run by each state along with the federal government that helps people with limited income and resources pay for health care. Whether you qualify depends on your income and your state rules, not your age.

Having both is a good thing

If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, you are dual eligible. That opens the door to a Dual Special Needs Plan that combines the two, usually for $0 a month, and often adds extra benefits like a grocery and OTC card, dental, vision, and transportation, for members who are eligible.

Want to know if you qualify for both and what a dual plan near you offers? A licensed agent can walk you through it.

Call (800) 000-0000

Medicare vs Medicaid at a glance

Medicare Medicaid
Who runs it Federal government Your state and the federal government together
Who it is for People 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities People with limited income and resources
Based on Your age or work history Your income and your state rules
Main help Hospital care, doctor visits, and prescription drugs Broad health coverage, often including long term care
Cost to you Premiums, deductibles, and copays Little to nothing for those who qualify

If both of those columns describe you, you are dual eligible, and a dual plan can bring the two together. See if you qualify by calling (800) 000-0000, or read Am I Dual Eligible and What Is a Dual Plan.

Call (800) 000-0000