Which program began in 1965 as a federal/state entitlement and pays for medical assistance for low-income individuals?

Which program began in 1965 as a federal/state entitlement and pays for medical assistance for low-income individuals?

• A. Medicare
• B. Medicaid
• C. CHIP
• D. CHAMPVA

Answer: (B)

Medicaid began in 1965 as a federal-state entitlement that pays for medical assistance for low-income individuals. It is funded jointly by the federal government and the states, with states administering the program within federal guidelines. Eligibility is based on income (and other qualifying categories), so those who meet the criteria have a right to covered services. This entitlement structure means benefits are provided to all who qualify, rather than being limited or need-based only in a discretionary way. In contrast, Medicare is a federal program primarily for people 65 and older or certain disabled individuals, not specifically tied to income. CHIP and CHAMPVA exist for other populations, making Medicaid the program that matches the description.

Medicaid began in 1965 as a federal-state entitlement that pays for medical assistance for low-income individuals. It is funded jointly by the federal government and the states, with states administering the program within federal guidelines. Eligibility is based on income (and other qualifying categories), so those who meet the criteria have a right to covered services. This entitlement structure means benefits are provided to all who qualify, rather than being limited or need-based only in a discretionary way. In contrast, Medicare is a federal program primarily for people 65 and older or certain disabled individuals, not specifically tied to income. CHIP and CHAMPVA exist for other populations, making Medicaid the program that matches the description.