Medicaid primarily serves what demographic?

Medicaid is designed to provide health coverage primarily to low-income individuals and families. This program aims to offer essential medical services to those who may not be able to afford them due to financial hardships. Eligibility for Medicaid typically includes low-income adults, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The program is funded jointly by both the federal and state governments, allowing for flexibility in how states manage their Medicaid programs while ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary healthcare services.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary demographic served by Medicaid. While individuals over 65 might qualify through other means, such as Medicare, they are not the primary focus of Medicaid. Self-employed individuals may also access Medicaid if they meet income criteria, but it is not limited to this group. Children under 18 are included in the Medicaid demographic, but the program serves a broader range of low-income individuals and families beyond just children.