Medicaid

A joint federal and state program in the United States that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities.

 

Federal Poverty Level (FPL)

The income level established annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) used to determine eligibility for Medicaid and other assistance programs. It varies depending on household size and location.

 

Eligibility Determination

The process through which individuals apply for and are assessed for Medicaid coverage based on their income, household size, and other criteria set by federal and state regulations.

 

Managed Care Organization (MCO)

A type of health insurance plan that contracts with Medicaid to provide comprehensive health services to beneficiaries in exchange for a fixed monthly payment per enrollee.

 

Provider Reimbursement

The payment made by Medicaid to healthcare providers, such as hospitals, doctors, and pharmacies, for the services rendered to Medicaid beneficiaries. Reimbursement rates are set by federal and state governments.

 

Medicaid Expansion

A provision under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that allows states to extend Medicaid coverage to low-income adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, with the federal government covering most of the costs.

 

Dual Eligible

Individuals who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare, typically low-income seniors and people with disabilities, who receive coverage and benefits from both programs.

 

Waiver Programs

Special Medicaid programs that allow states to experiment with different approaches to providing healthcare coverage and services, often targeting specific populations or addressing particular healthcare needs.

 

Medicaid Fraud

Any intentional deception or misrepresentation made by individuals or entities to receive unauthorized Medicaid benefits or payments, which is illegal and subject to penalties including fines and imprisonment.