Medicaid is essential for children in the child welfare system, providing critical access to physical, mental, and dental health care for those in or at risk of entering foster care. Nearly all children in foster care—99%—are covered by Medicaid, either through Title IV-E eligibility or other pathways. In fiscal year 2023, 186,602 children entered foster care, with 368,530 remaining in care by year’s end, highlighting the significant role Medicaid plays in supporting their well-being. This brief outlines how Medicaid benefits families.
