Medicaid 101

Medicaid is the largest children’s health program in the country. Medicaid is a partnership between the federal and state governments. States must follow federal guidelines, but they have the flexibility to determine some of the rules and benefits.

Half of all Medicaid enrollees are children, and 78 percent live in households where at least one parent works. Medicaid is also the primary source of health care for low-income families.

Twenty-eight percent of Minnesota’s children (324,840 children) are enrolled in Medicaid. In 2006, Medicaid covered 49,276 of Children’s inpatient days. Thirty-seven percent of Children’s revenue comes from Medicaid, making Medicaid Children’s largest single source of revenue.

In order for Children’s to continue providing innovative, high quality health care to children in our community, Medicaid must be protected. Please click here to learn more about how you can get involved in Children’s grassroots campaign and make a difference!

Medicaid Matters handout