Minnesota Celebrates Medicaid And Medicare Day

Minnesota Celebrates Medicaid And Medicare Day

State honors nearly six decades of landmark health care programs serving millions

By MinneapoliMedia Staff
August 6, 2025

Minnesota joined the nation in observing Medicaid and Medicare Day on July 30, 2025, marking the 59th anniversary of the creation of the two federal programs that have dramatically expanded health coverage and improved health outcomes across the country.

Signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 30, 1965, Medicare and Medicaid provide essential health care coverage to over 150 million Americans combined. In Minnesota, the impact is deeply felt:

• Over 1.1 million Minnesotans are enrolled in Medicaid (known in the state as Medical Assistance), including low-income children, families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• More than 1 million Minnesotans are covered by Medicare, which primarily serves individuals aged 65 and older and those with certain disabilities.

Governor Tim Walz

In honor of the programs’ 59th anniversary, Governor Tim Walz issued a state proclamation recognizing the day and highlighting the crucial role these programs play in safeguarding public health and promoting equity.

“For nearly six decades, Medicare and Medicaid have been lifelines for Minnesotans,” the proclamation stated. “They reflect our values of compassion, inclusion, and the right to access care regardless of age, income, or ability.”

A Lifeline for Minnesotans

Minnesota has long been a leader in expanding access to health care through innovative use of federal Medicaid funding. The state operates MinnesotaCare, a publicly subsidized health plan for working individuals and families with low to moderate incomes who do not qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.

According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS):

• Medicaid and MinnesotaCare together provide coverage to nearly 1 in 4 Minnesotans.
• The programs support access to preventive services, hospital care, behavioral health services, prescription drugs, and long-term care.
• In 2023, Minnesota’s Medicaid expenditures exceeded $15 billion, most of which was federally funded.

Celebrations and Advocacy

Health care advocacy organizations such as AARP Minnesota, TakeAction Minnesota, and the Minnesota Council of Health Plans commemorated the day by calling attention to the programs’ successes—and ongoing challenges.

“We celebrate the legacy of these programs but remain vigilant against threats to their funding and integrity,” said Cathy McLeer, State Director for AARP Minnesota, in a public statement. “Medicare and Medicaid must be protected and strengthened for future generations.”

Across the state, health centers and community organizations used the day to promote enrollment assistance and educate the public about eligibility and benefits. Portico Healthnet, a nonprofit helping Minnesotans access health coverage, held virtual sessions to connect residents with navigators.

Looking Ahead

While the programs remain pillars of the health care system, both face continued pressures:

• The post-COVID unwinding of continuous Medicaid coverage has led to eligibility redeterminations, resulting in coverage losses for thousands of Minnesotans.
• Medicare’s long-term solvency remains a national concern, with policy discussions ongoing about how to preserve benefits amid an aging population.

Minnesota officials have taken steps to mitigate disruptions. DHS has implemented streamlined renewal processes, increased outreach, and partnered with community organizations to ensure continuity of coverage.

Quick Facts: Medicare & Medicaid in Minnesota

• Medicaid (Medical Assistance) enrollment: ~1.1 million
• Medicare enrollment: ~1 million
• MinnesotaCare enrollment: ~90,000
• DHS budget for Medical Assistance (FY2023): Over $15 billion
• Programs cover: Preventive care, hospitalization, mental health, prescriptions, long-term services

As Minnesota commemorates Medicaid and Medicare Day, state leaders, providers, and residents reflect not only on the progress made since 1965, but also on the importance of continuing to build an inclusive, accessible, and affordable health care system for all.

For more information about eligibility and enrollment, visit: https://mn.gov/dhs/ or https://www.mnsure.org/

MinneapoliMedia