Editor, Gazette-Journal:
This is in response to the letter “In the right direction” (Readers Write, July 17).
The Social Security Act of 1935 was amended by law on July 30, 1965 and Title XVIII of that law established Medicare, a health insurance program for the elderly. Title XIX established Medicaid, a health insurance program for people with limited income. Title XXI covers CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Medicaid coverage expansion helps enrollees manage chronic conditions which then supports workforce participation. It also provides coverage to individuals who have chronic conditions or disabilities that may limit their ability to work. The phrase “able-bodied adults” doesn’t accurately reflect the capabilities of individuals with disabilities who may not qualify for formal disability benefits but still face barriers to employment. Most companies don’t provide full coverage health insurance to any but full-time employees, deliberately withholding hours to avoid providi...