Medicare Savings Program

The Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are government programs that help people with Medicare, who qualify financially, pay for some of their Medicare costs. The programs, also known as Medicare Buy In, aid people with low incomes. There are four Medicare Savings Programs, referred to as QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary), SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary), Q1-1 (Qualifying Individual) and QDW1 (Qualified Disabled Working Individual).

Each program has a different level of financial eligibility. Depending on income and assets, qualifying individuals can have a portion of their Medicare expenses paid. Benefits may include paying for premiums, penalties, deductibles and coinsurance. An application must be made through the Department of Social Services. Persons who believe they may qualify, but are not sure, should call:

• Medicare 1-800-633-4227
• Department of Social Services 571-4817
• Medicare Rights Center 1-800-333-4114
• HIICAP Program 292-1399