Medicaid eligibility is typically determined by individual state regulations, meaning that coverage generally does not automatically extend across state lines. Individuals who relocate must navigate the application process in their new state of residence to secure healthcare benefits. A person enrolled in Medicaid in New York, for example, would need to apply for Medicaid in Florida upon establishing residency there.
The need to re-establish Medicaid eligibility stems from varying income thresholds, resource limits, and specific program requirements established by each state. Understanding this process is crucial for maintaining continuous healthcare coverage, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on Medicaid for essential medical services. Historically, the state-based approach reflects the decentralized nature of the American healthcare system and the considerable autonomy granted to individual states in administering Medicaid programs.
