To the Editor;
This month Medicare turns 48. Since Medicare was signed into law July 30, 1965 by President Johnson, the program has helped millions of people age 65-plus as well as many younger Americans with disabilities get the health care coverage they need. Prior to the creation of Medicare, only half of the older adults in the United States had health insurance because coverage was often unavailable or unaffordable.
While you may understand the benefits of Medicare, did you know that it took almost two decades for Medicare to be signed into law? President Truman tried on three occasions to implement a national health insurance program without success. In 1961, a task force convened by President John F. Kennedy recommended the creation of a national health insurance program specifically for those over 65.
President Kennedy gave a televised speech about the need for Medicare in May of 1962. President Johnson continued the call in 1964 urging Congress to create Medicare. Finally, in 1965, Congress passed legislation creating the Medicare program.
When Medicare coverage began, more than 19 million Americans 65+ enrolled in the program. Today, nearly 50 million Americans depend on Medicare for their health insurance coverage. With increasing life expectancies and more people turning 65 every day, the number of people in Medicare is expected to double between the years 2000 and 2030.
Because this program is vital to so many, it’s important we take the time to appreciate Medicare’s journey. Equally important, we need to make sure that we do all we can to ensure the program remains strong for current and future generations. You can share your opinions at earnedasay.org.
Marion Pawlek
Kittery Point
AARP Maine Executive Council
