Question

In 1965, poor people were eligible for Medicaid only if they met certain requirements. What were the requirements for poor people to be eligible for Medicaid in 1965?

Answer 1

Eligibility for Medicaid in 1965 required individuals to have income below the poverty line, targeting low-income families with children, elderly, and people with disabilities. While the program included the 'near-poor', specifics of eligibility varied by state as they administered the program.

Step-by-step explanation:

In 1965, people were eligible for Medicaid only if they met certain criteria, which were largely based on income, family situation, and disability status. To receive Medicaid, individuals had to have an income that fell below the poverty line, which is the minimum level of income deemed necessary for a basic standard of living. More specifically, Medicaid targeted assistance towards low-income families with children, the low-income elderly, and people with disabilities.

Additionally, Medicaid's reach included the 'near-poor', who are those with incomes slightly above the poverty line. It is important to note that while the federal government funded a portion of Medicaid, individual states had the liberty to administer the program and determine eligibility requirements, which meant that coverage and levels of service could vary from state to state.