Medicare and Medicaid: Similar Names, But Very Different Programs 

Understanding how Medicare and Medicaid differ—and how they may work together—can help you make more informed decisions about your health coverage. 

Medicare is primarily a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities, ALS, or end-stage renal disease. Medicaid, known as MassHealth in Massachusetts, is a joint federal-state program with eligibility based on financial and other requirements. Importantly, some people may qualify for both Medicare and MassHealth. 

The differences go beyond who qualifies. Medicare and MassHealth can cover different types of care, have different costs and enrollment requirements, and play different roles when it comes to long-term services and supports. For people who qualify for both, MassHealth may also help with certain Medicare costs and provide coverage for services Medicare does not. 

With Medicare Open Enrollment beginning October 15, now is a good time to better understand your coverage and the choices available to you. 

Access Care Partners’ Medicare and Medicaid Explained: A Practical Guide breaks down the basics in easy-to-understand terms, including Medicare Parts A, B, C and D, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Medicaid and MassHealth. 

Download our free Medicare and Medicaid Explained guide to learn more about these important programs and the resources that may be available to you. 

Have questions about Medicare? Access Care Partners also offers free, unbiased SHINE counseling to help Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers understand their options and make informed choices.