I believe that everyone in Waldo County deserves to be able to age with dignity. But when I’m out in our community and talking with folks, I often hear how they are struggling to get by. People are worried about how they’re going to afford to grow old in their own homes, pay for groceries and keep up with their regular monthly bills. One of the biggest concerns I hear about is the cost of healthcare, and especially the price of needed medication.

While much of the work to fix the broken healthcare system needs to happen at the federal level, there’s a program I want to make sure folks are aware of that can provide some relief. It’s called the Medicare Savings Program.

The Medicare Savings Program helps older people with lower incomes pay for some or all of their out-of-pocket costs for Medicare premiums, deductibles and copayments. It can also pay for the Part B premium, which is usually deducted from Social Security – putting money directly back into people’s pockets. 

While the amount of the benefit varies depending on the individual, it typically averages around $7,300. There is no asset test and no estate recovery to participate in this program. It won’t solve all the real concerns people have about costs, but it can help alleviate some of the burden and anxiety that older Mainers are experiencing.

To learn more and receive help applying for the Medicare Savings Program, you can contact your local area agency on aging. Here in Waldo County, that’s Spectrum Generations, which can be reached at 1-800-639-1553. Another resource for information and assistance is Consumers for Affordable Health Care, which can be reached at 1-800-965-7476.

State Representative Mike Ray lives in Lincolnville

Rep. Mike Ray, D-Lincolnville, is serving his first term in the Maine House and represents the communities of Appleton, Islesboro, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill and Searsmont. He serves on the Legislature’s Transportation Committee.