Medicaid is a program that pays for medical assistance for certain individuals and families with low incomes and resources. This program became law in 1965 and is jointly funded by federal and state governments (including the District of Columbia and the Territories) to assist states in providing medical long-term care assistance to people who meet certain eligibility criteria. Medicaid is the largest source of funding for medical and health-related services for people with limited income.

The WSDA has prepared an analysis sheet of dentistry's contribution to Medicaid for fiscal year 2004: "Who Pays for Dental Medicaid."

More information can be found at the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services. Washington's Medical Assistance Administration provides state Medicaid rules, or contact the Medicaid provider relations section at 800-562-6188. Children's Medicaid information.