After significant effort by NoHLA, the onerous asset test for eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) will no longer be in effect starting on January 1st. As a result, more low-income seniors and people with disabilities will be eligible for help through MSPs to pay their Medicare premiums and cost-sharing. This help had been out of reach for many who had only modest savings.
While this is an important first step, there is still much work to do. Many people in our state cannot afford their health care costs and jeopardize their health by delaying needed medical care, not filling prescriptions, skipping doses, or cutting pills in half.
Did you know:
- half of the people with Medicare who are under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are paying 27% or more of their income on out-of-pocket medical costs;
- many older adults and people with disabilities lose access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage when they qualify for Medicare; and
- women and people of color are disproportionately affected because they have lower incomes.
You can help us by sharing your experience with Medicare costs or sending this link to someone you know and help improve access to affordable health care now.
Thank you for your support!