Which statement best reflects Medicaid eligibility?

• A. High-income individuals are eligible.
• B. Low-income individuals, including those who are elderly or have dependents, are eligible.
• C. Only children are eligible.
• D. Only pregnant women are eligible.

Answer: (B)

Medicaid eligibility centers on income and qualifying categories, not on high earnings or a single group. It is designed for people with low income who also fall into specific categories such as children, pregnant women, parents or caretakers, people with disabilities, and the elderly. Because of this needs-based structure, low-income individuals—and those who are elderly or have dependents—are the groups most commonly eligible. High-income individuals generally do not qualify, since the program targets those with limited means. That’s why the statement describing eligibility as based on low income and specific categories (including the elderly and those with dependents) best reflects how Medicaid works.