Medicaid – A need-based medical assistance program for people who cannot afford to pay for their medical care.
medical power of attorney – An advance directive that designates a person to make health care decisions for an individual if he is unable to make those decisions for himself.
Medicare + Choice – Known also as “Part C” of Medicare coverage plans; an expanded set of options including a Medicare managed care plan or Private Fee-for-Services plan, which can include extra benefits, but with the drawback of possibly having to pay more money, or only being able to go to certain doctors or hospitals.
Medically Needy Income Limit (MNIL) – The amount of income needed for monthly living expenses according to Medicaid legislation. Currently, this amount is $200 in West Virginia.
Medicare – A government-sponsored, state-operated health care program available to anyone who is at least 65 years old. It includes both hospital insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part B).
Medigap – Supplemental insurance which covers the “gap” when Medicare will not pay for coverage.