Fact Check: More than 71 million people rely on Medicaid in the United States.

Fact Check: "More than 71 million people rely on Medicaid in the United States."

What We Know

Medicaid is a crucial health care program in the United States that provides coverage for eligible low-income individuals and families. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), as of March 2025, there were approximately 71,258,215 people enrolled in Medicaid across the 50 states and the District of Columbia. This figure is part of a larger total of 78,577,962 individuals enrolled in both Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) during the same period. Medicaid eligibility varies by state but generally includes children, parents, pregnant women, elderly individuals with low income, and people with disabilities (HHS.gov).

Analysis

The claim that "more than 71 million people rely on Medicaid" is substantiated by the enrollment data provided by CMS. The reported figure of over 71 million is not only accurate but also reflects the current state of Medicaid enrollment. The data is collected monthly from all states, ensuring a comprehensive overview of enrollment trends and eligibility (CMS Enrollment Data Highlights).

The reliability of this data is high, as it comes from a federal agency responsible for overseeing Medicaid and CHIP programs. The CMS utilizes multiple reporting methods to ensure accuracy, including the Statistical Enrollment Data System (SEDS) and the Medicaid Budget and Expenditure System (CMS Enrollment Data Highlights).

Moreover, the information aligns with the broader understanding of Medicaid's role in providing health coverage to millions of Americans, particularly those in vulnerable populations. The HHS.gov site further clarifies the eligibility criteria, reinforcing the significance of Medicaid in the U.S. healthcare system.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "more than 71 million people rely on Medicaid in the United States" is accurate based on the most recent enrollment data from CMS, which confirms that over 71 million individuals are enrolled in the program. The data is credible, sourced from a reliable federal agency, and reflects the ongoing importance of Medicaid in providing essential health coverage to millions of Americans.

Sources

1. Who’s eligible for Medicaid? - HHS.gov
2. March 2025 Medicaid & CHIP Enrollment Data Highlights
3. What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid? - HHS.gov
4. What is the Medicaid program? - HHS.gov
5. How to Use Medicaid to Assist Homeless Persons - HHS.gov
6. What is the Health Insurance Marketplace? - HHS.gov
7. Medicaid and CHIP Enrollment Trend Snapshot
8. Does Medicaid cover dental care? - HHS.gov