MEDICARE/MEDICAID

Many people confuse Medicaid and Medicare programs. They are two separate programs.

Medicaid is a medical assistance program for those receiving SSI benefits and others with low income regardless of age. It is designed to help the elderly, blind, and other disabled people who need medical care but can not afford it.

Medicaid covers a wide range of medical care and services. To be eligible, you must meet certain income qualifications. Be sure to ask what documents to provide in order to apply for Medicaid. Medicare is an entirely different program. It is a federal health insurance program which helps to pay medical bills for persons age 65 or older who have worked under the social security or railroad retirement system.

There are two parts to the Medicare program. Part A is hospital insurance which helps to pay for hospital care. Part B is medical insurance which helps to pay for such costs as doctors' services, outpatient hospital services, diagnostic tests, outpatient physical therapy, speech pathology services, durable medical equipment, some home health services and supplies. This medical insurance is optional. If you want this medical coverage, you must pay a monthly premium.

If you would like more information about Medicare, call 1-800-772-1213 to be connected with your local Social Security office.