Final answer:
Medicaid eligibility is based on federal requirements for certain groups of individuals, such as the blind, disabled, and children below the poverty level. However, states have the authority to determine eligibility criteria, leading to variations in eligibility standards across different states.
Step-by-step explanation:
Medicaid eligibility is based on certain criteria. The federal government requires coverage of the blind, the disabled, and children under the age of 18 whose family's income is below the poverty level. However, states have the authority to determine eligibility for Medicaid, and the standards can vary significantly between states. For example, someone who is eligible for Medicaid in California might be excluded in Texas. Additionally, the program ensures that a basic level of benefits is provided to Medicaid participants, but the specific eligibility requirements and levels of service vary from state to state.