Celebrating 60 Years of Medicare and Medicaid: Insights from KFF Health News’ ‘What The Health?’

On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson made history by signing the laws that created Medicare and Medicaid. Fast forward sixty years, and these programs cover nearly a quarter of Americans and account for a substantial piece of the federal budget.

This week on KFF Health News’ podcast “What the Health?” host Julie Rovner delves into the past, present, and future of these influential programs. She chats with two experts: Jonathan Oberlander, a professor at the University of North Carolina, and Sara Rosenbaum from George Washington University.

Jonathan Oberlander, a renowned Medicare historian, points out how Medicare has evolved yet, in many ways, remains outdated. Initially designed to cover significant medical expenses for older Americans, its benefits have not kept pace with the growing needs of its beneficiaries. The gap in coverage, especially concerning long-term care, starkly affects many who rely on Medicare.

Historically, Medicare emerged from unmet needs faced by older Americans. Before its establishment, nearly half of those over 65 lacked health insurance. Medicare aimed to address this disparity, but as Oberlander notes, many beneficiaries now require supplementary plans to address significant health costs. In 2025, around 70 million people will be enrolled in Medicare, yet they often need additional coverage to get comprehensive care.

Speaking of Medicaid, Sara Rosenbaum reveals how it began as a companion program to Medicare, focused on providing health coverage for the poor. Initially, its growth was gradual, centered around low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Over the years, it has become the go-to safety net for diverse health needs, from mental health to long-term care. Surprisingly, Medicaid is also a leading provider of drug treatment and rehabilitation services.

The conversation reveals a significant change in the political landscape surrounding these health services. While Medicare was once a bipartisan initiative, partisan divisions have emerged, especially with regard to expanding these programs. Recent efforts to reform Medicare towards a more privatized model have raised questions about its future. Medicaid, on the other hand, has been called upon to absorb many uninsured individuals as coverage gaps grow in the healthcare system.

As we look ahead, the pressing questions remain: How will Medicare adapt to the increasing demand for comprehensive care? And will Medicaid continue to be a shield for low-income populations amidst ongoing political negotiations? Both programs are essential for many Americans, making their future a vital topic of discussion.

To learn more about the complexities and challenges of Medicare and Medicaid, tune into the full episode of “What the Health?” featuring insights from both Oberlander and Rosenbaum.

For more on the history of Medicare and Medicaid, visit [KFF Health News](https://www.kffhealthnews.org/).

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