The Social Security Act of 1965 established:

• A. Medicare and Medicaid to help older adults and low-income people get health care.
• B. A universal national health insurance program for all citizens.
• C. A public health data collection act.
• D. A private health insurance mandate only.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is how health coverage was expanded to specific populations through government programs. Medicare and Medicaid were created to broaden access to care for those with the greatest need: older adults and people with low incomes. Medicare is a federal program that primarily serves people 65 and older (and some younger individuals with disabilities), providing hospital and medical insurance. Medicaid is a joint federal–state program that helps low-income individuals and families obtain health coverage and essential services. Together, these programs address gaps in coverage rather than establishing a universal national health insurance for all citizens or mandating private insurance. This distinction helps explain why the act is associated with Medicare and Medicaid, not with universal coverage, a data-collection mandate, or a private-insurance requirement.