Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that primarily provides coverage for people who are 65 years old or older. It also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families. It is administered by states, according to federal requirements, and the program receives funding from both the federal government and the states.

Generally, individuals who are 65 years old or older and have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years are eligible for Medicare. Some younger individuals with disabilities or end-stage renal disease may also qualify for Medicare.

Eligibility for Medicaid varies by state, but generally, low-income individuals and families, including pregnant women, children, and individuals with disabilities, may be eligible. Each state has its own income and eligibility requirements.

Medicare covers a wide range of medical services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive services, prescription drugs, and some home health care. The coverage is divided into different parts, such as Part A, Part B, Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

Medicaid covers a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, vaccinations, prescription drugs, mental health services, and long-term care. The specific services covered may vary by state.

Medicare is funded through a combination of payroll taxes, premiums paid by beneficiaries, and general revenue from the federal government. The Medicare payroll tax is withheld from employees’ wages and self-employed individuals pay the tax directly.

Medicaid is funded jointly by the federal government and the states. The federal government matches a certain percentage of the funds spent by each state on Medicaid. The exact federal matching rate varies based on the state’s per capita income.