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Medicaid
Medicaid Health Coverage
Overview
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities.
Who Qualifies
- Low-income adults (in expansion states, up to 138% FPL)
- Children in families up to 200-300% FPL (varies by state)
- Pregnant women
- Elderly adults and people with disabilities
- Some legal immigrants after 5-year waiting period
How to Apply
- 1Apply through Healthcare.gov during open enrollment
- 2Apply directly through your state Medicaid agency anytime
- 3Apply at your local social services office
- 4Some hospitals can help you apply
What You Get
Comprehensive health coverage including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health services, and more. Most services are free or very low cost.
Processing Time
45-90 days typically. Emergency Medicaid available for urgent situations.
Important Tips
- 💡 Medicaid can cover bills from up to 3 months before you applied
- 💡 If denied, you may qualify for marketplace subsidies
- 💡 Children often qualify even if parents don't
- 💡 Pregnancy-related Medicaid has higher income limits
This information is for general guidance only. Eligibility rules vary by state and change frequently. Always verify with official sources or contact your local benefits office.