Medicare vs. Medicaid: What’s the Difference? Medicare is a federal program for people 65 or those with certain disabilities. It covers regular health needs and short-term rehab care for up to 100 days. Medicaid, on the other hand, is based on financial need. It also covers health care but is unique in that it pays for ongoing long-term care, such as nursing home or skilled facility stays that don’t have a set end date, explains Partner Michele Muldoon. If you or a loved one are thinking ahead a