Medicare is most frequently associated with Social Security. Adults with disabilities can establish eligibility after 24 months of Social Security Disability eligibility.

A Medicare beneficiary automatically qualifies for Medicare Part A, known as hospital insurance benefits. It covers such things as inpatient care and skill nursing facility care. Part B supplemental medical insurance is optional and requires payment of a monthly premium. It covers community-based services, including physician services, durable medical equipment, prosthetic devices and home health services. Medicare PART D, the prescription drug benefit, is optional and depending on the individual, could require substantial out-of-pocket expenses for monthly premiums, co-payments and deductibles.

Medicaid is needs-based (means-tested). In 39 States, including Florida, a person who receives Social Security Income (SSI) automatically qualifies for Medicaid.