What does Medicaid Cover?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program in the United States that provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. While Medicaid benefits can vary somewhat from state to state due to differences in eligibility criteria and optional benefits, there are certain services and benefits that are typically covered by Medicaid across all states. Here are some common examples of what Medicaid may cover:

1. Doctor Visits: Medicaid typically covers visits to doctors, specialists, and other healthcare providers for medically necessary services.
2. Hospitalization: Medicaid covers inpatient hospital stays, including surgeries, treatments, and other services provided during the hospitalization.
3. Prescription Drugs: Medicaid often covers prescription medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.
4. Preventive Care: Medicaid covers preventive services such as vaccinations, screenings, and check-ups to help prevent illness and detect health problems early.
5. Maternity Care: Medicaid covers prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for pregnant women, as well as coverage for newborns.
6. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services: Medicaid covers mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and inpatient psychiatric care, as well as treatment for substance abuse.
7. Emergency Services: Medicaid covers emergency medical services, including emergency room visits and ambulance transportation for emergency medical conditions.
8. Diagnostic Tests and Imaging: Medicaid covers diagnostic tests and imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRIs, and blood tests, when medically necessary.
9. Home Health Services: Medicaid may cover home health services, including skilled nursing care, home health aides, and therapy services for individuals who meet certain criteria.
10. Durable Medical Equipment (DME): Medicaid covers durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen equipment when prescribed by a healthcare provider.
11. Long-Term Care: Medicaid covers long-term care services for eligible individuals who require nursing home care or home and community-based services for chronic illnesses or disabilities.
12. Dental and Vision Care: While coverage for dental and vision care varies by state, Medicaid may cover certain dental and vision services for eligible beneficiaries, such as exams, cleanings, and eyeglasses.
13. Rehabilitative Services: Medicaid covers rehabilitative services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, to help individuals regain or improve their functional abilities.

It’s important to note that Medicaid coverage may be subject to certain limitations, restrictions, and eligibility requirements, and not all services may be covered in every circumstance. Additionally, Medicaid beneficiaries may be required to pay certain out-of-pocket costs, such as copayments or coinsurance, depending on their income and state Medicaid program rules. Individuals should consult their state’s Medicaid agency or Medicaid managed care plan for specific information about covered services and eligibility criteria.