What Is the Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid?
There are a few basic differences between Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare is a federal program specifically designed to provide health coverage to those 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with disabilities. On the other hand, Medicaid is a state and federal program that is designed to provide low income individuals or families with the health coverage they need.
Can I Be Enrolled In Medicaid and Medicare?
Some individuals may lose Medicaid eligibility when they turn 65, where others may be eligible for both forms of coverage. If you are eligible for both programs, you are considered dual eligible. Depending on your specific eligibility, you will gain Medicare coverage along with either full or partial medicaid coverage. Contact our team in Saratoga Springs today to discover more about your specific eligibility!
Will Medicaid or Medicare Be My Primary Insurance?
Medicare will act as your primary insurance in most cases, whereas Medicaid will act as secondary insurance to cover gaps in your Medicare plan. In specific cases, such as items or services not covered by Medicare, Medicaid will act as the primary provider of coverage. Additionally, if you have a Medigap plan along with Original Medicare, both Medicare and Medigap will pay first before Medicaid coverage kicks in to cover portions of the remaining costs.
Additional Coverage Options When Dual Eligible
When you are dual eligible, you may also be eligible for additional coverage and savings opportunities such as the Medicare Savings Program (MSP), Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) MSP, Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), and more. Speak to one of our Medicare brokers today to learn more about the additional options available to dual eligibles.
