This program pays premiums for about 185,000 senior citizens whose
income falls between 120 and 135 percent of the federal poverty level.
Advocates for the senior population, particularly poor seniors, are
concerned that lawmakers will not vote to continue the program, making
it impossible for those involved in the program to see their doctors
when necessary.
Medicare premiums have increased by 50% over the last three years, so
seniors who lack funds rely heavily on the assistance offered by the
Qualified Individual program, which saves them about $1,000 a year,
notes Associated Press writer Kevin Freking.
Though government officials note that they do not expect the program to
disintegrate, it is indeed stalled between the House and the Senate,
who are currently debating the aspects of Welfare reform.
Most
agree that funding for the program is not an issue at this time.
However, as time passes, some states have ceased taking applications
from seniors who might otherwise easily qualify for the program.
Other states are preparing to send out notices that the program has
expired, a fact of which most Qualified Individual beneficiaries may
not be aware.
According to the article, advocacy groups believe that some states may
have extra funds set aside that will assist those who are currently
enrolled in the program as well as new enrollees. Qualified
recipients are encouraged to check with their state’s social services
office for further information and to determine if new applications for
the program are still being accepted.
The Social Security Administration believes that, at this time, monthly
checks will not be affected, despite the program’s expiration. No
one is saying, however, how long things may remain unchanged.
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