Medicaid primarily serves which population group?

Medicaid is a public assistance program designed specifically to provide healthcare coverage for individuals with low socioeconomic status. This includes low-income families, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and certain children. The program aims to ensure that those who might not be able to afford necessary medical care can receive it without facing financial hardship.

The focus of Medicaid on individuals with lower income levels reflects its role in addressing healthcare disparities and providing support to vulnerable populations. This demographic often faces barriers to accessing quality healthcare, making Medicaid critical for their well-being.

In contrast, wealthy individuals typically have the financial means to pay for healthcare without government assistance, while veterans are usually served by separate programs like the Veterans Health Administration, which focuses specifically on their unique needs. Additionally, employees of state government likely have access to employer-sponsored health insurance plans, further distinguishing them from the Medicaid-eligible population.