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Over the past two years, I have met with hundreds of constituents to talk about the issues they face and do my best to connect them with resources that could help. Many of the folks I have talked to are older people who want to maintain their independence and stay in the communities where they have built their lives. But the cost of living makes it hard for many, especially when they are living on fixed incomes.
In the Legislature, my priority has been making sure we are doing all we can to help. That is why I supported legislation to expand eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program, which helps older people with lower incomes pay for some or all of their out-of-pocket Medicare costs. This includes premiums, deductibles and copayments. It can also pay for Part B premiums, which are typically deducted from Social Security.
The expansion is now in effect. Even if you have looked into it before and didn’t qualify, an estimated 45,000 Mainers will benefit from the updated guidelines, so it’s worth another look to find out if you are one of them. While the amount of the benefit varies depending on the individual, it averages around $7,300 — an amount that can make a real difference in a household budget.
For more information and for help applying for the Medicare Savings Program, contact the Eastern Agency on Aging at 1-800-432-7812 or Consumers for Affordable Health Care at 1-800-965-7476.
Rep. Ron Russell
Verona Island
