Rangel Celebrates 48th Anniversary of the Enactment of Medicare

Press Release

Today, Congressman Charles B. Rangel marked the 48th anniversary of Medicare, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 30, 1965. Medicare has been a crucial part of healthcare security for thousands of Americans, including individuals over 65 years old, younger people with disabilities and those diagnosed with end stage renal disease.

"Creating Medicare was one of the proudest accomplishments of the Democratic Party," stated Rangel. "Medicare has transformed the lives of seniors for generations, extending their life and giving them the chance to live independently with dignity."

After the enactment of Medicare, nearly every American 65 years and older was covered by the federally-sponsored healthcare program, compared to 51% before. As a result, the life expectancy of Americans increased from 70.2 years old to 78.2 years old.

"Too many people have forgotten what life was like before Medicare existed. But I am certain that Medicare is the bedrock in American healthcare system and that is why we must continue to strengthen and sustain Medicare and the Affordable Care Act."

This spring, Republicans passed a House GOP budget that cuts Medicare and transforms it into a privatized voucher plan, increasing healthcare costs for seniors and limiting the scope of who can receive health benefits.

"As a result of the Affordable Care Act, New Yorkers with insurance have more options and stronger healthcare coverage and those who are unsatisfied with their insurance can choose one that suits them better," said Rangel, who introduced the healthcare reform bill in the House of Representatives.

Since the Affordable Care Act was enacted, New York residents with Medicare have saved $516 million on prescription drugs. In 2012 alone, 226,569 individuals in New York saved more than $170 million, or an average saving of $752 per enrollee. In the entire country, over 6.6 million people with Medicare saved a total of over $7 billion on drugs.

"Today, we recommit ourselves to Medicare by supporting the Affordable Care Act, which provides discounts on drugs for those in Medicare Part D coverage gap and free preventive services. My Democratic Colleagues and I are determined to protect and improve Medicare so our future generations can live healthy lives."

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