The Key Difference
Medicare is federal health insurance based on age (65+) or disability. Medicaid is a joint federal-state program based on financial need.
What Medicare Covers
Up to 100 days of skilled nursing after a qualifying hospital stay, home health aides if medically necessary, and durable medical equipment.
What Medicaid Covers
Long-term nursing home care, home and community-based services, personal care assistance, and medical transportation.