Michigan Medigap subsidy expands eligibility to help more Michigan residents

LANSING, Mich - The Michigan Health Endowment Fund (Health Fund) announced today that the Michigan Medigap Subsidy is expanding its eligibility criteria to help more Michigan residents. This is part of the Health Fund's$120 million subsidy assistance commitment to help low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities cover a portion of their Medigap insurance, used to supplement Medicare.

The subsidy will now be available to Michigan residents with a qualifying Medigap policy and an annual income at or below 225 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL), or $26,730 or less for an individual and $36,045 for a couple. Previously, the subsidy was limited to those with an income of 150 percent or less of the FPL ($17,820 for an individual or $24,030 for a couple).

"We needed to make sure we were able to provide assistance for those who needed it most, so we initially prioritized a smaller group of Michiganders," explained Terry Gardner, chief operations officer of the Health Fund. "Now we are confident that the dedicated funding for the subsidy can help even more people, so we're broadening the eligibility."

To determine the best way to expand the program, the Health Fund sought input from senior and disability advocates, including the Michigan Medicare/ Medicaid Assistance Program, Area Agencies on Aging, and AARP; insurance carriers; and state government officials and departments.

"The Health Fund is dedicated to helping improve the health of Michigan residents, especially those most vulnerable like older adults," said Paul Hillegonds, Health Fund CEO. "Expanding the Medigap subsidy program is one way we can do that, helping more low-income seniors and individuals and people with disabilities afford the health care coverage they need."

For those who qualify, the monthly subsidy will be:

* $125 for individuals under 65 with a disability;

* $40 for individuals between the ages of 65 and 75;

* $65 for individuals 76 or older.

The subsidy is only available to Medicare-eligible individuals currently enrolled in Medigap plans under five participating insurers: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network, Health Alliance Plan of Michigan (HAP), Priority Health and United/AARP.