EASTON, MARYLAND — Maryland runs several programs that help people with limited income pay Medicare costs, and the state says the best way to learn whether you qualify is to apply. Talbot residents can get free, confidential help sorting out the options by calling the county's Medicare counseling office at 410-822-2869.
The Maryland Department of Aging lists the programs. Medicare Savings Programs can help pay monthly Part B premiums, and for those who qualify, other costs such as Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. Extra Help programs pay toward Medicare prescription drug coverage; people who qualify have lower or free monthly premiums and pay less for prescriptions. The Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program, known as SPDAP, offers subsidies toward drug plan premiums for moderate-income residents who are not eligible for Extra Help.
SPDAP has three stated requirements: showing residency in Maryland for at least six months, being a Medicare recipient and having an income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.
Two other options work differently. Good Pill Pharmacy is a nonprofit, home-delivery pharmacy with no income or asset limits; the department says most prescriptions are $6 for a 90-day supply, though stock is limited to certain medications. Disease Funds are financial assistance programs for out-of-pocket medication costs, insurance premiums and transportation for more than 80 specific chronic, rare and cancer-related conditions, with grants that last up to 12 months.
To apply for a Medicare Savings Program, the Maryland Department of Health says you can apply in person or mail an application to your local department of social services. When you apply, the state figures out which program you qualify for. The programs are Qualified Medicare Beneficiary, Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary, Qualifying Individual, and Qualifying Disabled & Working Individuals. Income and assets must be below each program's limits. Questions can go to the Medicare Savings Program at 1-800-638-3403, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, offers one-on-one help navigating Medicare and learning about savings programs. SHIP says it does not sell insurance. Talbot's number is 410-822-2869.
Source: Maryland Department of Aging
Also: Maryland Department of Health, Maryland Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program, Maryland Department of Aging (2)
Drawn from public records; drafted with AI and edited by Peter Gorman before publication.
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