What is the function of the Social Security Administration (SSA) in relation to Medicaid?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) plays a critical role in determining Medicaid disability eligibility for certain applicants, which is why this choice is the correct answer. For individuals to qualify for Medicaid based on disability, they often need to first meet the criteria set by the SSA for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA evaluates medical conditions and the ability to engage in substantial gainful activity to make a determination regarding disability, which directly informs eligibility for Medicaid.

The other options, while related to aspects of social services, do not accurately reflect the specific functions of the SSA regarding Medicaid. For instance, the provision of health insurance cards is generally the responsibility of the state Medicaid programs rather than the SSA. Similarly, managing claims for Medicaid services is handled by the state agencies that administer Medicaid, not the SSA. Lastly, while the SSA does administer financial assistance programs like SSI, this is distinct from the administration of Medicaid and does not pertain directly to the specific role of the SSA in relation to Medicaid eligibility.