Troy, MI – Representative Gary Peters released the following statement today in recognition of the 45th anniversary of the implementation of Medicare. President Johnson signed Medicare into law on July 30, 1965, and the Medicare program began to be implemented on July 1, 1966.

“Today marks the 45th anniversary of the official launch of the Medicare program.  On July 1, 1966 this program began providing high-quality, low-cost medical insurance to every senior in America.

“The simple facts are the best testament to Medicare’s success.  In 1964, before Medicare was created, only half of seniors over the age of 65 had health insurance.  A shocking 30 percent of seniors lived below the poverty line, and the life expectancy in America was 70.2 years old.  

“It is hard to imagine that reality today.   After 45 years of Medicare, virtually every American over the age of 65 has health insurance.  Poverty rates for seniors have been reduced to 7.5 percent and the life expectancy for all Americans has risen to 78.2 years. 

“Medicare has been successful in providing health care security and financial stability for seniors.  It provides a dignified standard of living and health for hard working Americans in retirement.  The program covers 47 million people and guarantees high quality benefits at an affordable cost.  It is no wonder that 72 percent of Americans stated that Medicare was extremely or very important to their retirement security in a recent national poll. 

“Today, Medicare is a reflection of the fundamental American value that our senior citizens should not be forced into poverty and bankruptcy as they deal with the challenges of aging. We must address rising health care costs and the federal deficit, but we cannot balance the budget on the backs of America’s senior citizens.

“I would ask everyone to think of a senior in their family today and imagine what a life without health insurance would mean to them.  What would being uninsured in old age mean for you and your future retirement plans?  We must stand together against those who wish to dismantle Medicare and refuse to return to the grim statistics of 1964.  We owe our seniors, ourselves and our children more.  Today, I wish to reaffirm my unwavering commitment to Medicare’s future and join millions of Americans in celebration of this historic anniversary.”

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