Medicare, the federal health insurance program for Americans aged 65 and older, was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 30, 1965 as part of the Social Security Amendments of 1965. The creation of Medicare was a significant step in addressing healthcare disparities that disproportionately affected Black Americans during that time.

Prior to the implementation of Medicare, many Black Americans faced barriers in accessing affordable healthcare due to systemic racism and discrimination. Segregation and unequal treatment in healthcare facilities limited the options available to Black individuals, resulting in many being unable to receive adequate medical care.

The passage of Medicare played a crucial role in expanding access to healthcare for Black Americans by providing coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, and other medical services. This helped to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for Black communities.

Although Medicare was a major milestone in advancing healthcare equity, disparities in health outcomes and access to care persist for Black Americans today. Efforts to address these disparities continue to be an important focus in ongoing discussions about healthcare reform and improving the health and well-being of all Americans.