As Medicaid celebrates six decades, its role in supporting youth in foster care stands out as one of its most vital contributions. Covering 99% of foster youth, Medicaid provides access to critical health services—from behavioral health care to chronic condition management and transitional support into adulthood.

This brief explores how federal policy has shaped Medicaid’s connection to foster care, the challenges of fragmented systems, and the opportunities for states to improve coordination and outcomes. With innovative models emerging across the country, now is the time to strengthen Medicaid’s promise of stability and well-being for every child in care.