What is Medicaid primarily designed to do?

Medicaid is primarily designed to cover low-income individuals and families, which makes it a crucial component of the U.S. healthcare safety net. This government program provides essential health coverage to those who may not have the financial means to afford health insurance, including children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities.

The focus on low-income individuals ensures that those who are most vulnerable in society receive access to necessary medical services, which can include hospitalization, doctor visits, long-term care, and preventative services. This supports the broader goal of public health and welfare by helping to reduce health disparities among various socioeconomic groups.

Other options, such as providing insurance exclusively for seniors or focusing on employed individuals, limit the scope and intent of Medicaid. Additionally, offering only short-term health coverage does not align with Medicaid's goal of ensuring long-term access to healthcare services for those in need. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of Medicaid's purpose.