Which program provides medical services for individuals in need and is jointly funded by the state and federal government?

The program that provides medical services for individuals in need and is jointly funded by the state and federal government is Medicaid. Medicaid serves as a critical safety net, offering health coverage to low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities. This program is designed to ensure that those who may not have the financial resources to access necessary medical care can receive it without suffering economic hardship.

It is important to understand the funding structure of Medicaid; both the federal and state governments share the costs, which allows for flexibility in how each state administers its program. States have the authority to set eligibility requirements and determine the specifics of the services covered, within federal guidelines.

In contrast, Medicare is primarily focused on providing health services to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities, and is funded almost entirely by the federal government. Social Security, while a vital program for income support, does not provide medical services. The Public Health Service is a federal agency concerned with public health and well-being but does not function as a medical service program funded by both state and federal resources.