Definition: A distinction for individuals who fall into a specific category (or criteria)of mandatory Medicaid eligibility established by the federal government.
These categories apply to every state Medicaid program.
States must provide Medicaid coverage to these categories of individuals in order to receive federal funding. States may also provide Medicaid coverage to others, if they choose.
More detailed eligibility information is available from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the federal government agency overseeing the Medicaid program.
