45th Anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid

 

Today, July 30, 2010, marks the 45th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid.  Both programs were enacted on July 30, 1965, when President Lyndon Johnson signed the Social Security Amendments of 1965 (P.L. 89-97).

Medicare is a national health insurance program created and administered by the federal government. The program is designed to address the medical needs of older American citizens above the age of 65, and also, certain individuals with disabilities under the age 65. 

Medicaid is a means-tested entitlement program. It is jointly financed by Federal and State funds. Each state designs and administers its own program under broad Federal rules. Currently, broadly speaking, Medicaid provides three types of critical health protection: (1) health insurance for low-income families with children and people with disabilities; (2) long-term care for older Americans and individuals with disabilities; and (3) supplemental coverage for low-income Medicare beneficiaries for services not covered by Medicare and Medicare premiums, deductibles and cost sharing. 

Through the passage of the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and Medicaid will change dramatically.  As these changes are implemented, it is important that the programs’ strengths are maintained and that states are given the scope and resources to meet local needs through innovation and cooperation. 

Today we celebrate Medicare and Medicaid and all that they embody; an enduring commitment to ensuring Americans age with dignity, living longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Read the Presidential Proclamation