Medicare beneficiaries who have limited incomes and assets may be eligible for assistance with prescription drugs and/or Medicare parts A & B. The federal Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) Program, also known as Extra Help, assists qualified Medicare beneficiaries with out-of-pocket expenses associated with Medicare Part D prescription drugs. The state Medicare Savings (MSP) program, assists qualified Medicare beneficiaries with costs associated with Medicare parts A & B.

There are more than 80,000 Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina who may be eligible for help but have yet to apply. SHIIP, the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program and a division of the N.C. Department of Insurance, is joining with partners around the state to help beneficiaries understand and apply for these programs.

The Social Security Administration identified Medicare beneficiaries in Polk County who may be eligible for Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) or Medicare Savings Program (MSP) or both. SHIIP counselors are available at the Polk County Senior Center/The Meeting Place, Monday through Friday by appointment, to assist Medicare beneficiaries who may qualify for one or both of these programs. Please call (828) 894-0001 to schedule an appointment or for more information.