[20201130]IF10322_Medicaid引物.pdf

https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated November 30, 2020Medicaid PrimerMedicaid is a joint federal-state program that finances the delivery of primary and acute medical services, as well as long-term services and supports (LTSS), to a diverse low-income population, including children, pregnant women, adults, individuals with disabilities, and people aged 65 and older. In FY2019, Medicaid provided health care services to an estimated 75 million individuals at an estimated cost of $627 billion, with the federal government paying about $405 billion of that amount. Participation in Medicaid is voluntary for states, though all states, the District of Columbia, and the territories choose to participate. The federal government requires states to cover certain mandatory populations and benefits but allows states to cover other optional populations and services. Due to this flexibility, there is substantial state variation in factors such as Medicaid eligibility, covered benefits, and provider payment rates. In addition, several waiver and demonstration authorities in statute allow states to operate their Medicaid programs outside of certain federal rules. Eligibility Historically, Medicai