A low-income lifeline for 50 years
On July 30, 1965, two pieces of historic legislation — Medicare and Medicaid — were signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, marking a half-century of expanded access to health care.
Since its passage, Medicaid has served millions of low- and moderateincome American families, children, pregnant women, seniors and people living with disabilities. It is provided for free or at low cost and covers essential services like doctor visits, prescription drugs and preventive care.
In all, a total of 71.1 million Americans have enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), including nearly 1.5 million Tennesseans.
During that time, Medicaid has proved to be one of the most critical programs in the country for helping low-income Americans protect themselves and make ends meet. In fact, according to the Center on Budget Policies and Priorities, roughly 88 percent of Medicaid enrollees have a source for regular health care, which is more than twice the number for those living without coverage.
It has proved equally critical for disabled Tennesseans. It’s easy to take for granted how empowering things like wheelchairs, walkers or home oxygen equipment can be for someone looking to live independently.
In my work with the Memphis Center for Independent Living, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that appropriate treatment and devices can have on the lives of people with disabilities. Medicaid has made that a reality for so many.
When the Affordable Care Act — sometimes referred to as Obamacare — was enacted two years ago, many states expanded access to Medicaid to more Americans. While a political battle currently rages in our legislature about whether the same will be done in Tennessee, it’s important to note that since the first open enrollment period of the Affordable Care Act began, Medicaid enrollment in Tennessee has jumped 18 percent, compared to just 8 percent in other non-expansion states. This is due in large part to a “welcome mat effect” caused by an increase in outreach and enrollment efforts across the country.
This statistic shows just how important public education is to helping every Tennessean find affordable health coverage. Studies by Enroll America show that the more educated a person is about their coverage options, the more likely they are to successfully enroll in a plan.
That’s why we’re working to make sure everyone knows that Medicaid enrollment is year-round and you can apply any time. And you won’t have to spend a dime on preventive care, so you can take control of your health and make sure your family can get the care they need.
Many uninsured Tennesseans may want help with their application, and we have good news for them: There are people in your community who are certified to sit down with you — for free — and help you submit your application.
You can visit the Get Covered Connector at getcoveredamerica.org/ connector to find someone in your community who can meet with you and help you submit your application.
For the last 50 years, Medicaid has served as a lifeline to literally millions of low-income Americans. If you are currently uninsured, take this time to learn about your coverage. Protect yourself and your family with health insurance, and get the peace of mind you deserve.