Although Medicare covers the majority of healthcare costs, it does not cover 100% of these expenses.  Patients are responsible for deductibles and copayments on medical services and prescription drugs. Sometimes meeting these obligations can be very difficult, and for some, even impossible.

There are extra help programs that could help. I’d like to tell you about them.

First, the State Medicaid programs are available for qualified individuals who meet certain income and asset limits.  If your income as a single person is $902.50 per month or less, or as a couple $1,214.17 per month or less, and you have limited resources, you could be eligible for a program that can pay your Medicare premium, deductibles, and copayments. In addition, this would automatically qualify you for assistance with your prescription plan premiums, deductibles, and copayments as well.

Even if you do not qualify for this program, you still may be eligible for others. If your income as a single person is $1,353.75 per month or less, or as a couple $1,821.25 per month or less, and you have limited resources, you could qualify for extra help with your Medicare healthcare or prescription costs.

To apply for these programs, you should contact your local Social Security office, visit social security online at www.ssa.gov, or call your local Medicare counseling program State Health Insurance Assistance program, or SHIP. The number for TN is 1-877-801-0044.

If your income does not meet the requirements and you are still having difficulty paying for your medications, talk with your physician about patient assistance programs and generic medicines that can also help you save money.

Whatever you do, don’t go without proper healthcare because you think you can’t afford it. There is help available; you just have to ask for it.

Article provided by Mary Beth Best, Medicare advocate with Voice, Inc.