HISTORIC CEREMONY HELD AT TRUMAN LIBRARY
Independence, Missouri (JFK+50) On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Medicare Act. The historic ceremony took place at the Harry S Truman Library here in Independence.
Not only was the former Democratic president on hand for the ceremony, he was the first enrolled as well as the first to get his Medicare card.
Mr. Truman was so honored because he was the first President of the United States to propose a national health insurance program for senior citizens.
As it stands today, Medicare is available to those who are 65 years of age or older.The program is funded, like Social Security, by payroll taxes. Before Medicare was passed, only 60% of Americans ages 65 & older had health insurance.
Independence, Missouri (JFK+50) On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Medicare Act. The historic ceremony took place at the Harry S Truman Library here in Independence.
Not only was the former Democratic president on hand for the ceremony, he was the first enrolled as well as the first to get his Medicare card.
Mr. Truman was so honored because he was the first President of the United States to propose a national health insurance program for senior citizens.
As it stands today, Medicare is available to those who are 65 years of age or older.The program is funded, like Social Security, by payroll taxes. Before Medicare was passed, only 60% of Americans ages 65 & older had health insurance.
LBJ Signs Medicare Act of 1965
Independence, Missouri
July 30, 1965
LBJ Library Photo
