Medicare Title XVIII / Medicaid Title XIX (Social Security Act)
U.S. Medicare & Medicaid Public Healthcare Guide 2026
Exhaustive guide to U.S. federal public healthcare: Medicare Parts A/B/C/D eligibility rules, Medicaid income thresholds, CHIP for children, and FQHC community health centres.
Overview
Medicare (Title XVIII of the Social Security Act) covers persons 65+ and disabled workers with 40 work credits. Part A (hospital inpatient) has no premium for those with sufficient work history. Part B (outpatient/physician) carries a standard $174.70/month premium (2024). Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. Medicaid (Title XIX) provides coverage to low-income individuals. Federal Poverty Level thresholds vary by state.
Key Facts & Statutory Reference
| Item | Detail | Statutory / Official Source |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare Part A | Inpatient hospital — no premium (40+ work credits) | Social Security Act Title XVIII |
| Medicare Part B | Outpatient physician — $174.70/month premium (2024) | CMS.gov 2024 announcement |
| Medicare Part D | Prescription drug coverage — plan-based premium | Medicare Modernization Act 2003 |
| Medicaid | Income-based coverage — ≤133% FPL in expansion states | Social Security Act Title XIX |
| CHIP | Children's Health Insurance Program — up to 200% FPL | 42 U.S.C. § 1397aa |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Green Card holders who are 65+ and have worked 40 quarters (10 years) of Medicare-covered employment in the U.S. are fully eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A. They can also purchase Part B and Part D.
Medicare is a federal age- and disability-based program primarily for Americans 65+. Medicaid is a joint federal-state income-based program for low-income individuals regardless of age. Some people with very low incomes who are 65+ qualify for both (Dual Eligible).