PHOENIX — The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) proudly joins the nation in celebrating the 60th anniversary of Medicaid, a cornerstone of America’s health care system that has provided essential coverage to millions of individuals and families since its inception on July 30, 1965.
For six decades, Medicaid has served as a lifeline for low-income children, pregnant women, adults, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In Arizona, AHCCCS has been at the forefront of delivering high-quality, cost-effective care through an innovative managed care model that has become a national example of Medicaid efficiency and impact.
“Medicaid has transformed the health and well-being of Arizonans for generations,” said Marcus Johnson, Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Regulatory Affairs at AHCCCS. “As we mark this milestone, we honor the progress made and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every eligible Arizonan has access to the care they need to live healthy, productive lives.”
Established in 1982, AHCCCS now serves nearly 2 million Arizonans. Over its four plus decades, AHCCCS has expanded access to behavioral health services, long-term care, and integrated care models of care. The agency continues to innovate through partnerships, technology, and community-based solutions that reflect the evolving needs of Arizona’s diverse communities.
As Medicaid turns 60, AHCCCS celebrates the employees, providers, health plan partners, and community stakeholders and most importantly, the members who continue to drive improvements and advance the Medicaid program toward continued innovation and the delivery of high-quality services, where access to care remains at the heart of its mission.
To learn more about AHCCCS and its programs, visit www.azahcccs.gov
