What's the difference between TennCare Standard and TennCare Medicaid?


Editorial team Published on

TennCare Medicaid is Tennessee's main low-income healthcare program, while TennCare Standard is a transition program exclusively for certain children under 19 who lose their Medicaid eligibility or lack other insurance.

TennCare Medicaid

  • Who it covers: Low-income children, pregnant women, parents or caretakers of minor children, and elderly or disabled individuals.
  • Eligibility rules: Must meet strict income and resource (asset) limits based on specific group categories.
  • Costs: Generally has no premiums or co-pays for doctor and hospital visits, though adults may have small pharmacy co-pays.

TennCare Standard

  • Who it covers: Only children under age 19 who are already enrolled in TennCare Medicaid but no longer qualify, or who lack access to employer-sponsored group health insurance.
  • Eligibility rules: Functions as a safety net or CHIP-like extension for children transitioning off Medicaid who do not have private insurance options.
  • Costs: May require co-pays for doctor visits, emergency room use, or inpatient care depending on household income tiers.

You can learn more or apply through TennCare Connect.