Forty-five years ago today, President Lyndon Johnson signed a contract between America and our seniors, ensuring health care and peace of mind for millions of older Americans.

It’s hard to imagine how significant that impact was on people of previous generations.  Before the start of Medicare, so many older Americans lived out their last days without any reliable or affordable health care.

Signing this bill into law changed the dynamic. The inherent promise, that if you work hard when you retire you will have stability and economic security, is a hallmark of this nation.

Its most immediate benefits were felt by many low-income Americans but the truth is all seniors gain from contract – and it is appropriate that today we pause to honor its birth.

Medicare has made lasting improvements to our nation’s health care system and the quality of life of seniors by making health care more affordable and accessible.  It has become the foundation of care in our nation, and none of us can imagine an America without it.

Medicare provides health care to more than 47 million Americans. It’s a simple program that kicks in when someone turns 65 and offers support at a time when many people are easing away from work and toward retirement.

Now, 45 years after becoming law, we are still celebrating health care and its potential to improve our lives.

The Affordable Care Act passed in the House and signed into law by President Obama promises the same transformative significance.  This bill is a critical step forward toward ensuring that everyone can get that same excellent care.  It emphasizes preventative care through free vaccinations, mammograms and colonoscopies, increasing long term health and reducing long term costs.

In addition to increasing affordability and access to health care, we shored up holes in Medicare by closing the so called “donut hole,” a gap in coverage that left many seniors covering part of their prescription drug expenses out of pocket.  Every year, 9,000 residents in my district reach the donut hole and are forced to pay the full cost of their prescription drugs.  Our seniors should not have to choose between their medication and food on the table.  The health care law prevents that kind of gut-wrenching choice.

I encourage everyone to visit healthcare.gov to learn more about the important reforms we’ve made, or visit medicare.gov to learn more about your benefits.