Can I Get Both Medicare and Medicaid? What’s the Difference?

f17903964_1308990762469491_4546253000336033805_n — Artwork: Robin Mead

Medicare vs Medicaid

Medicare and Medicaid are two separate programs. Some people have one, some people have the other and some people have both. There are many complex political and procedural differences that you don’t particularly need to know about. The important parts that will affect you are this:

Money

In most situations, Medicaid has no premiums, deductible or co-pays. It is free.
Medicare does have premiums, deductibles and co-pays but it is sometimes possible to reduce or eliminate these fees. Please see: How to Escape Medicare Fees

Doctors

Medicaid pays doctors less than Medicare does. While many doctors accept Medicare, it can be harder to find a doctor that accepts Medicaid.
If you are on both Medicare and Medicaid, you may be able to go to a doctor that accepts Medicare and then Medicaid will cover the co-pay.

Extra Good Stuff

Medicare does not cover dental, vision, or transportation to doctors. In many states, Medicaid does cover these things.
There are some lab tests and procedures that are covered by Medicare, but not Medicaid.

Can I Be On Both Medicare and Medicaid?

Yes, if you are on Medicare, you can also apply for Medicaid. You will need to meet the requirements. Each program has different requirements.
If you were on Medicaid before, but got cut off when your Medicare started, also don’t give up hope! There may be a different program you qualify for. These are listed on this page: How to Escape Medicare Fees

How Do I Qualify for Medicaid?

There are many different ways to get on Medicaid and many different Medicaid programs. Each state has many different Medicaid programs you can apply for.
If you are receiving SSI, you will be enrolled in Medicaid automatically.

How Do I Qualify for Medicare?

You can get on Medicare if you are on Social Security. That is it.
If you are receiving SSDI, you will be enrolled in Medicare after a 24 month waiting period.
If you are receiving Social Security retirement, you will be enrolled in Medicare when you turn 65.
If you are receiving a different form of Social Security, you may be eligible for Medicare, but you will need to check the regs for the program you are in. Other forms of Social Security: spousal, widows, ex-spouse, disabled adult children.