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Medicare and Medicaid Policy

Medicare and Medicaid policy is about the laws, rules, and funding decisions that shape the two main public health insurance programs. It covers how they pay providers, how they are financed, what changes Congress and the states make, and how the programs work together. Federal health agencies, state Medicaid offices, Congress, and the courts all take part.

People usually ask how a change in law or budget affects their coverage. They want to know how the two programs differ, how private plans fit into Medicare, how states deliver Medicaid services, and how each program pays for long-term care and other costly needs.

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October 5last updated

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All Articles on Medicare and Medicaid Policy

Conceptual painting of a patient and care team bringing several care plans together.
Medicare and Medicaid Policy

How Medicare Pays for Treating Multiple Related Conditions

One patient can arrive with heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes—and leave with three separate care plans. Clinically, she has three deeply interconnected…

By
GovFacts
32 Min Read
Older adult and audiologist examine a hearing aid while family member compares plan folders.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

How Medicare Covers Hearing Aids Through Private Plans

A reader writes to us: Why does the government force the elderly who are already on a fixed budget to pay for a Medicare…

By
GovFacts
33 Min Read
Conceptual watercolor of Medicaid and Medicare program workers comparing separate folders.
Medicare and Medicaid

How the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ Impacts Medicare and Medicaid

What the 2025 reconciliation law changes in Medicaid and Medicare, when its rules begin, who may be affected and where enrollees can get help.

By
GovFacts
17 Min Read
Conceptual watercolor painting of patient and navigator discuss two routes to care in a clinic.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicaid Delivery Systems: Understanding Fee-for-Service vs. Managed Care

Medicaid fee-for-service and managed care differ in who pays providers, how networks work, and where members turn for coverage questions and appeals.

By
GovFacts
26 Min Read
Painted illustration of a benefits navigator explaining two health coverage options.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicare vs. Medicaid: Key Differences Explained

Medicare and Medicaid are cornerstones of the American healthcare system, providing health coverage to millions. Despite their similar names, they are distinct programs with…

By
GovFacts
55 Min Read
A family compares skilled recovery and ongoing daily-care plans.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicare Coverage for Long-Term Care: What You Need to Know

Planning for potential long-term care (LTC) needs is a critical aspect of later life, yet many individuals are uncertain about how much assistance they…

By
GovFacts
43 Min Read
Conceptual painting of an older adult comparing Medicare coverage options with a counselor.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

Medicare Part C Explained: What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?

Medicare Advantage, officially known as Medicare Part C, offers an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits. Private insurance companies approved by Medicare provide…

By
Asada
44 Min Read