There was a story in The Record yesterday, apparently picked up from the Wire Services (or so the editor told me), that made the statement that Medi-Cal is California’s version of Medicare. This is not correct, and since this is an ongoing point of confusion, I thought I would take a moment and explain.
Medicare is the government health care system, typically available to you at age 65. There are exceptions to this statement, such as a person may be able to qualify early in cases of disability or sometimes will not elect to go on it until a later age when they are still working. However, for purposes of keeping it simple, it’s the health insurance you get when you retire at age 65.
Medicaid is government health insurance for those of little means. It has many qualifications, but in all cases is income based.
Medi-Cal is California’s version of Medicaid, not Medicare.
I just wanted to clear that small error up.
And remember, if you have Medicare, I offer services that can help you determine what supplemental program may best meet your needs. Give me a call. I can help you.
