HEALTHCARE PLAN

US Healthcare Plans

US Healthcare Plans

Introduction

This paper seeks to discuss two medical plans in the United States. The paper debates between Medicare and TRICARE.

History of Medicare

In 1945, the United States president Harry Truman decided to bring to the attention of the Congress. The message was in an attempt to develop a universal plan that would be applicable to all United States citizens. The Congress contemplated the bill that would establish a healthcare plan. The debate for a comprehensive plan carried on for twenty years. The prolonged wait made president Truman give up on the idea. Even though the president had given up on the healthcare bill, Social Security system and a number of other participants continued the efforts. After two decades of struggle, in 1965, the Medicare and Medicaid plans became legislation after the Congress approved the bill. President Lyndon Johnson's vision of a “Great Society” and Harry Truman's initial efforts materialized. It would only be fitting for Harry Truman to be the first person to enlist in Medicare. This Act became applicable to the general public and has been serving since its introduction in 1965. There is currently a debate as to what changes does the Act need to address the changing needs (Shi & Singh, 2009).

Eligibility Criteria for Medicare

Since the bill was applicable to all citizens, there had to be eligibility criteria through which people would receive medical insurance. The criteria for insurance require people to be of 65 years of age and a resident of the United States for 5 years to qualify for Medicare. Medicare also requires the person's spouse to pay medical taxes for a minimum of 10 years. Another condition for people under the age of 65 that are disabled should receive Social Security of retirement benefits. Individuals that need kidney transplant ...