Final answer:
Medicare helps pay for prescription drugs, including those administered by injection, for eligible patients as part of its expanded benefits from the 2003 act. This expansion has provided critical support to the elderly and disabled, significantly impacting public health and federal spending.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under Medicare's home health coverage, Medicare assists in paying for a drug administered by injection for patients who qualify for these benefits. Before the substantial expansion of Medicare in 2003, known as the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act, there were significant gaps in coverage, especially for prescription drugs. This act introduced much-needed relief for the elderly and disabled, who often need multiple prescription drugs, providing them with discounts and coverage. The introduction of Medicare prescription benefits was a crucial public health improvement, despite criticisms related to its costs, administrative overhead, and the impact on drug prices.
The political pressure, influenced by organizations such as the American Association for Retired People (AARP), led to this legislation, which allocated significant federal funds to assist with the high costs of prescription drugs for Medicare recipients. Though the initial cost to the federal government was substantial, amounting to about $40 billion in 2006, it resulted in critical support for nearly 20 million Americans who benefit from Medicare. It's also important to note that Medicaid, a separate program, provides healthcare coverage for the poor and disabled, including many services but is distinct from Medicare's offerings.