What does the Medicaid program provide?

The Medicaid program is designed to provide healthcare coverage for eligible low-income individuals and families. It serves a critical role in the U.S. healthcare system by ensuring that those who cannot afford to pay for healthcare are still able to access necessary medical services. Medicaid covers a wide range of health services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, long-term care, and preventive care, thereby supporting both individual health and public health objectives.

This program specifically targets low-income populations, which includes children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities, helping to reduce health disparities among those who might otherwise go without care due to financial constraints. By fulfilling these functions, Medicaid effectively addresses the needs of various vulnerable groups within society, providing essential support in the realm of healthcare access.

Other options point to definitions or groups that do not accurately reflect the purpose or the audience served by the Medicaid program, such as retirees, wealthy individuals, or business health plans, which are not the focus of Medicaid's provisions.