Which government program provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families?

The government program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families is Medicaid. Medicaid is designed to assist those who have limited financial resources, ensuring that they receive essential health care services. It covers various services, including hospital visits, long-term care, preventative care, and more, depending on the specific state guidelines.

Medicaid eligibility is typically based on income level, family size, and other criteria. This program varies by state, as each state administers its own Medicaid program with distinct benefits and rules within the federal framework.

Understanding the distinction between Medicaid and other programs is essential. For instance, Medicare primarily serves those who are elderly (typically 65 and older) or individuals with specific disabilities, not just low-income individuals. TRICARE is a health care program for military personnel and their dependents, providing coverage for a specific population rather than low-income criteria. CHIP, while it serves low-income families with children, specifically targets children and may not encompass all low-income individuals and families as Medicaid does. Thus, Medicaid stands out as the primary insurance program for low-income individuals and families.