Difference between Medicare and Medicaid

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Shantae Shinholster

BHS 450

Module 4 Case Assignment

Dr.  Afshin Afrookhteh

February 23, 2008

The difference between Medicare and Medicaid is their benefit entitlements.  Medicare is a health care program designed for people who are 65 years of age and older.  It also incorporates individuals who are under the age of 65 with certain disabilities, pregnant women and children.  Medicaid is provided by the state for individuals with very low incomes and has expensive medical bills.  I will exhibit the criteria for Medicare and Medicaid.  I will discuss how Medicare has evolved by using a time line how it has accommodated to the changing needs of society.  I will also provide the consensus about the future of Medicare.  

Medicaid is different from Medicare because each program is designed for a specific group of people. Eligibility is determined by income levels.  Families whose income is at least 60 percent in the poverty level they can receive Medicaid. Pregnant mothers qualify for Medicaid because they need immediate assistance in prenatal care.  It is also designed for children 0-18 years of age.  Medicare assists individuals who are disabled, have kidney problems, need long term care, and are over the age of 65 years old.  Medicare has two components.  They are Part A and B.  Part A is for individuals who need inpatient care, hospitalization and other services in the hospital.  Part B is coverage for outpatient care, medical supplies and other needs of disabled individuals.

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Medicare has progressed since 1945 when it was first created by President Harry Truman. He requested that Congress ask for legislation to create a national health plan.  “In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson created a law that Medicaid and Medicare is combined together to create one health program.  At this time, Medicare Part B was created.  In 1972 big changes were made.  Disabled people who were under the age of 65, people with chronic kidney disease, and people who received Social Security Supplemental Income were covered under Medicare.  Certain medical visits were included also.  Speech, physical, and chiropractic services became accessible ...

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