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Because the United States does not have a national/UHC program, public health care programs are intended to help fill the gap. Beginning in 1965 under Titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, eligibility for public insurance has been based on age (Medicare for those age 65 and older) or based on having a low income and/or having a disability (Medicaid). Medicare and Medicaid programs ensure access to many needed services for patients. Medicare is the largest federal program. Medicare Part A is an insurance plan for hospital, hospice, home health, and skilled nursing care that is paid through Social Security taxes. Nursing home care that is mainly custodial is not covered. Medicare Part B is an optional insurance that covers physician services, medical equipment, and diagnostic tests. Part B is funded through federal taxes and monthly premiums paid by the recipients. Part D is optional coverage for outpatient medications.

Medicaid, a state program financed by federal and state funds, pays for services provided to persons who are medically indigent, blind, or disabled and to children with disabilities. The federal government pays between 50% and 83% of total Medicaid costs based on the per capita income of the state. Services funded by Medicaid vary from state to state but must include services provided by hospitals, physicians, laboratories, radiology, prenatal and preventive care, and nursing home and home health care services.