Original Wording of Medicare Law

Language of the original Medicare legislation contrasts with today's system.

TITLE XVIII - HEALTH INSURANCE FOR THE AGED

"PROHIBITION AGAINST ANY FEDERAL INTERFERENCE"

"Sec. 1801. Nothing in this title shall be construed to authorize any Federal officer or employee to exercise any supervision or control over the practice or medicine or the manner in which medical services are provided, or over the selection, tenure, or compensation of any officer or employee of any institution, agency, or person providing health services; or to exercise any supervision or control over the administration or operation of any such institution; agency or person.

"FREE CHOICE BY PATIENT GUARANTEED"

"Sec. 1802. Any Individual entitled to Insurance benefits under this title may obtain health services from any institution, agency, or person qualified to participate under this title if such institution, agency or person undertakes to provide him such services.

"OPTION TO INDIVIDUALS TO OBTAIN OTHER HEALTH INSURANCE PROTECTION"

"Sec. 1803. Nothing contained in this title shall be construed to preclude any State from providing, or any individual from purchasing or otherwise securin9, protection against the cost of any health services.