Which act established both Medicare and Medicaid in 1965?

The establishment of both Medicare and Medicaid in 1965 was a significant milestone in the history of American healthcare policy, and it was accomplished through the Social Security Act. This act expanded the social safety net by including provisions that created Medicare to provide health insurance for individuals aged 65 and older, and Medicaid to assist low-income individuals and families in accessing healthcare.

The Social Security Act had previously provided a framework for various social insurance programs, and its amendments in 1965 specifically addressed the healthcare needs of the elderly and the underprivileged. By linking these programs to the existing social security system, the act facilitated a structured approach to delivering essential health services to those most in need.

The other options listed do not pertain to the creation of Medicare and Medicaid. The Affordable Care Act is a more recent legislation focused on expanding insurance coverage and reducing healthcare costs. The Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act primarily introduced prescription drug benefits to Medicare recipients but did not create the programs. The Veterans Health Care Eligibility Reform Act relates to healthcare for veterans and is separate from the Medicare and Medicaid programs.