Eligibility is determined by the Social Services department according to financial and non-financial criteria established by the Department of Medical Assistance Services. Medical assistance is available to persons over 65, blind, permanently and totally disabled, dependent children, pregnant women and certain children under 19 years of age. Another medical insurance program, Children's Medical Security Insurance Plan, is available for children under 19 who are over the income level for Medicaid. Medicare is the federal health care insurance program for people aged 65 and over and for the disabled.
Eligibility is based mainly on eligibility for social security.
Medicare helps pay charges for hospitalization, for stays in skilled nursing facilities, for physician's charges and for some associated health costs. There are limitations on the length of stay and type of care. If you have questions on either Medicare or Medicaid, call the Social Services Department at 437- 3200.