Assistance available for medical expenses

[Posted by alaurie_97@yahoo.com]

Assistance available for medical expenses
By MICHELLE STRAWN and AMBER VALENT for the Missoulian missoulian.com




When dealing with illness, injury or a medical emergency, it can be
difficult for patients and their loved ones to navigate the economic
side of health care. Health insurance policies come in all shapes and
sizes, and information about medical service coverage can be unclear.

Many people without insurance face looming medical bills and are often
unaware of the helpful options available. Patient financial advocates
and medical/medication assistance coordinators work together to help
patients manage their health care costs by looking over their
circumstances and identifying programs for which they may be eligible.
The advocates and coordinators explore insurance options, financial
assistance and payment arrangements. They help patients understand and
meet application guidelines and program requirements.

Several public insurance programs exist to aid patients with health
care costs. In Montana, programs like Medicaid, the Healthy Montana
Kids program, and the Mental Health Services Plan provide insurance
coverage based on specific criteria, including income, age and medical
need.

Offices of public assistance in counties across the state process
Medicaid applications to determine eligibility and can answer specific
questions regarding individual qualifications.

The Healthy Montana Kids program provides free or low-cost coverage
for Montana children up to age 19 in households that meet income and
other eligibility guidelines. The range of income requirements is
higher than Medicaid, providing a much needed coverage option for more
families. For example, a household of four can make up to $55,125
annually and still meet HMK income guidelines.

The Mental Health Services Plan covers approved outpatient mental
health services and mental health medications for adults. In addition
to a patient application, health care providers must complete a
clinical portion of the application.

Beyond the state and federal programs, many hospitals offer financial
assistance programs. All applicants must meet medical necessity
requirements. Income eligibility is based on the 2009 Federal Poverty
Guidelines. More information about all Montana public assistance and
coverage programs is available on the website www.mt.gov.

Some patients' medical conditions may interfere with their ability to
work. If patients are found eligible, federal programs such as Social
Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income may
provide income relief.

If the applicant's work history is long enough and Social Security
taxes are paid, SSDI provides benefits to those found disabled and
their eligible family members. If disabled candidates do not meet such
requirements, the SSI program pays benefits to those with limited
income and resources. For more information regarding Social Security
programs, visit the website www.socialsecruity.gov.

In addition to state of Montana and federal program offerings, there
are numerous other programs to help reduce financial barriers to
medical services. Pharmaceutical assistance programs provide low-cost
or free medication to those who meet eligibility requirements,
increasing patient access to expensive prescriptions. Websites such as
www.needymeds.com or www.rxassist.org catalog pharmaceutical
assistance programs and have up-to-date application materials and
instructions for consumer use.

Many health care organizations have established their own financial
assistance programs with personnel ready to help patients identify
programs available to reduce medical costs. Patient financial
advocates assist patients with navigating these application processes.
By focusing on patient education regarding medical coverage and income-
based programs, advocates and coordinators empower patients with the
knowledge necessary to make more informed financial health care
decisions.

Michelle Strawn is director of revenue cycle management and Amber
Valent is medication/medical assistance coordinator at St. Patrick
Hospital and Health Sciences Center.