Medicaid by the numbers

Today marks the 59th anniversary of Medicaid, a state-administered program designed to ensure the most vulnerable in our communities can access the health care services they need. The program is jointly funded by states and the federal government, and today it provides coverage of prescription medicines in all 50 states.

Here’s a snapshot of how Medicaid provides access to medicines across the country:

• 82 million: Medicaid, and CHIP the program for children, provides access to medicines for 82 million Americans
• 40%: Medicaid provides coverage to 40% of expectant mothers nationwide
• 66%: Medicaid provides coverage to 66% of expectant mothers who are Black Americans and American Indian and Alaska Natives
• $0: Many Americans enrolled in Medicaid pay zero-dollar copays for their medicines

Here’s a look at how manufacturers have long supported this vital safety-net program and provide significant rebates to help reduce Medicaid costs for states and patients:

• 5.6%: Total Medicaid net spending on retail prescription drugs post-rebates
• $48.5 billion: Total rebates provided under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program in 2022 to states and the federal government from manufacturers

Medicaid is essential for our health care system. The program’s guaranteed coverage enhances adherence to medicines, which helps individual patients stick to treatment plans outlined by their medical professional.

Access to care provided under Medicaid can also improve health equity. While private insurance is the primary source of coverage across racial and ethnic groups, Medicaid helps to fill gaps in this coverage for underserved communities disproportionately impacted by chronic conditions, like asthma and diabetes.

For more on Medicaid, click here.