What is the difference between medicare and medicaid?


Medicare and medicaid are government-run health insurance programs designed to provide health care coverage for different qualifying groups.  

Medicare is a federal program that provides healthcare coverage for people 65 years of age or older.  It can also provide coverage for people under 65 years old if they have a qualifying disability.  There are no income limits in order to qualify for medicare.

Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides health insurance for people with low income and assets.   Individual states establish financial eligibility guidelines to determine who is eligible for coverage. 

It's possible to enroll in medicare and medicaid at the same time if all qualifications are met for both programs.