Which federal program provides medical care for indigent individuals?

The correct answer is Medicaid, which is a federal program designed to provide medical care and health coverage to individuals and families with low income. Medicaid is essential for supporting those who cannot afford to pay for medical services out of pocket, thus serving indigent populations who are particularly vulnerable. This program also helps in covering a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital visits, doctor’s visits, long-term medical care, and sometimes even preventive care, making it a fundamental resource in the healthcare system for low-income individuals.

Medicare, on the other hand, is primarily focused on providing health coverage to the elderly and certain disabled individuals, rather than specifically targeting low-income or indigent populations. CHIP stands for Children's Health Insurance Program, which is aimed at providing health coverage to children in families with incomes that are too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage. SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is not a health program but a benefit program that provides income to individuals who are disabled and have enough work history. Each of these programs serves distinct populations and needs, emphasizing the critical role of Medicaid in addressing the medical care requirements of indigent individuals.