To make matters worse, they are often not told they can get Medicaid and food stamps right away.

"Why do you stay with a guy who's beating you when you've got your own welfare and Medicaid?"

This, in turn, can keep them from getting Medicaid, since the two are often linked.

While homes in both groups get Medicaid, they have substantially different interests.

Hospital officials said they would help patients who qualify get Medicaid or free or reduced treatment.

For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food or other social services.

No longer will people need to go broke to get Medicaid.

Further, the amount a family could earn and still get Medicaid rose somewhat in 1999, which meant the status of some children changed.

In some states, it is difficult for poor people to get Medicaid if they have no children.

Many also get Medicaid, food stamps and other benefits that increase their total compensation.