[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 121 (Wednesday, July 29, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1173]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 MEDICARE AND MEDICAID 50TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOYCE BEATTY

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 29, 2015

  Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, in 1965, President Lyndon Johnson signed 
two important programs into law: Medicare and Medicaid.
  These two critical programs provide Americans much needed access to 
healthcare.
  They were created out of the truth that healthcare is a right, not a 
privilege, and no one should fall into poverty due to a lack of 
healthcare or treatment.
  Over the last 50 years, Medicare has helped millions of American 
families maintain independence and security.
  Medicaid provides a health care safety net for senior citizens, 
persons with disabilities, and children and young adults from working 
families.
  For example, in 2013, in my district, Ohio's third congressional 
district, 85,313 of the residents received Medicare and 173,991 of the 
residents received Medicaid.
  That is why I applaud Governor Kasich for his decision to expand 
Medicaid in Ohio.
  Our path forward should build upon President Johnson's vision by 
strengthening Medicare and Medicaid, improving essential benefits, and 
containing costs.
  By closing the prescription drug ``doughnut hole'' and curtailing 
waste and fraud, the Affordable Care Act lowers costs to beneficiaries 
and improves benefits.
  There are definitely ways to improve Medicare and Medicaid programs, 
and cut waste, fraud, and abuse.
  But, these changes should not be on the backs of our seniors and most 
vulnerable citizens.
  We must work in a bipartisan way to strengthen Medicare and Medicaid 
and ensure enhanced access to affordable, quality healthcare.
  Fifty years later, Medicare and Medicaid continue to save lives, help 
Americans live healthier, and provide the peace of mind that comes with 
access to healthcare and treatment.
  I will continue to support and improve these two critical programs 
that are an integral part of our social safety net.

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