Understanding the Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid

There is a lot of terminology in the long-term care world, because we’re getting into the medical world, but a common question is, “What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?”

Medicaid is a means-tested program, so they are going to give it to you if you meet certain financial eligibility guidelines—income and asset tests.

Medicare is an entitlement in which you’ve worked and paid into the system. It is going to help you with paying for your medical bills, whereas Medicaid pays for your long-term care bills, which often just helps with your daily activities of living.