Notice Regarding Medicare Cost Sharing

The state is required by law to pay Medicare cost sharing expenses for Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMBs) whose income and resources are at or below the QMB income and resource standards.

Since you meet these requirements, the state will pay your Medicare cost sharing expenses for you beginning next month.

For persons enrolled in Medicare, cost sharing expenses are Medicare premiums (Part A- hospital and Part B- medical insurance), Medicare deductibles and coinsurance amounts.

When the state starts paying your Medicare Part A and/or Part B premiums you will be refunded the premium amount deducted from your Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits starting with the first month you were determined eligible.  It usually takes 2-3 months to get the refund.

If you have a medical card, your medical provider can confirm that your coinsurance and deductibles are covered by the QMB program.

Ask your provider if they participate in both Medicare and Medicaid.  To make sure that you will not be responsible for Medicare deductibles and coinsurance,  your provider must participate in both Medicare and Medicaid programs.  If you go to a provider that does not participate in these programs, you may be responsible  for deductibles and coinsurance charges.

When you need medical care, show your provider both your Medicare card and your medical card. If you do not have your medical card with you, you can still get medical services.  Give the medical provider your 9 digit medical ID number and your photo ID.

HFS 3132 (R-11-12)