WHAT IS PUBLIC HEALTH INSURANCE?
In 1965, the Social Security Act established both Medicare and Medicaid, a
the national health insurance program funded by the Federal and State
governments to assist States in providing medical care assistance to
people who meet certain eligibility criteria.

The federal statute identifies over 25 different eligibility categories
for which federal funds are available. While most may think Medicare only
provides coverage to people who are 65 years and older, in some
circumstances it does provides services to people with disabilities under the age of 65.

EACH STATE HAS DIFFERENT GUIDELINES
Medicaid is a state administered program. Each state sets its own
guidelines subject to federal rules and guidelines. Certain services must
be covered by the states in order to receive federal funds. Other services
are optional and are elected by states.

Recently the agency that administers both programs was renamed the Centers
for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
www.cms.hhs.gov/

IMPACT TO YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS WITH SPECIAL HEALTH CARE NEEDS
This HRTW Health Insurance Section provides information and resources to
better understand ALL the Medicaid/Medicare funded programs that may
affect youth and young adults.

The topic bullets - to the left of this text - will link you to quick fact
sheets that explain about each program:

• What is it
• Who qualifies
• What it covers
• What it costs
• Impact for YOUTH
• How to Apply
• Guides
• Resources