Medicare and SSI?

[wvgirl]

I am getting SSI and started dialysis May 1st. My social worker told me I need to apply for Medicare. Right now I get Medicaid. I called the SS office and she said the only way I can get Medicare is if I pay a $456 monthly premium with a $1500 deductible. My Medicaid pays for dialysis and I get $698 a month ssi. Do I have to take the Medicare? I am thinking that makes no sense for me to have it but the Social Worker seemed to think I do need the Medicare. I am confused.

[smcd23]

It depends on what state you live in. Some states will pay for what they call 'uninsured Medicare" if you are on Medicaid, because it saves them money in the end. It sounds like that's what you would be qualified for - which is basically Medicare for folks who haven't worked enough to be insured on their own (generally 10 years), and have to pay the full premium amounts and deductibles for Part A and B. I know the State I currently work in does not automatically pick up Medicare for those who are uninsured while MA does.

But if you're married (and I have no idea if you are or how old you are) and your spouse is at least 62, you can file using his credits.

I would call the social worker back and tell her that you do not have enough credits for Medicare and would have to pay the full cost for A and B. Then ask her since you are on Medicaid will the state pay for that? I'd say just ask the Medicaid office, but sometimes they have no idea themselves, and I think the Social Worker may know because she probably encountered it before. Send me a PM if you want more help or have more specific questions. (I work for SSA).