It changed the way health services are delivered in Australia, and this year, Medicare is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
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To commemorate the milestone, the federal government will roll out special anniversary Medicare cards from February 1 - marking the date Medicare services commenced in the country.
While Medicare was officially launched in 1984, its origins date back to the Whitlam government, which introduced the Medibank system in 1975.
Following the government's dismissal, the incoming Fraser government made a number of changes to Medibank.
The Hawke government changed Medibank to Medicare in 1984, reversing many of the previous government's changes. While it was given a different name, Medicare was very similar to the Medibank system introduced almost 10 years earlier.
Under Medicare, the government pays some or all costs of health care services covered under the Medicare Benefits Scheme, including public hospital costs.
Eligible patients whose GPs bulk bill do not have to pay for appointments, while those whose doctors don't bulk bill can claim some of their money back.
Medicare also makes some medicines more affordable through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents, those applying for permanent residency, or temporary residents covered by ministerial orders are eligible to enrol for Medicare.
People who get a new or replacement Medicare card between February 1 and the end of the year will be sent the commemorative edition.
Digital cards in Medicare online accounts, the Medicare Express Plus app and the myGov app will also automatically update to the 40-year anniversary design from February 9.
Health minister Mark Butler said a number of anniversary activities will take place this year, in partnership with communities and professionals who deliver services.
"The celebration acknowledges Medicare is the foundation of our health system, ensuring all Australians have equitable access to health care when they need it, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay," he said.
For information on how to get a digital copy of your Medicare card click here.
