- Medicare is a federal program primarily for people 65 and older, or younger individuals with disabilities. It covers hospital, medical, and prescription drug services.
- Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals, including children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
- Eligibility: Medicare is age- or disability-based, while Medicaid is income-based.
- Some people qualify for both – this is called “dual eligible” or a DSNP plan.