How the QMB Program Saves You Money

The Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) program acts as secondary medical insurance coverage. It pays for the Medicare deductible and co-pay costs that Medicare does not cover. An important QMB benefit is that QMB also covers the “Part “B” Medicare expense, which is otherwise paid for out of your Social Security check. This adds up to approximately $60 per month or $720 per year that will be reflected as an increase in your monthly Social Security check.

Individuals who qualify for QMB are currently covered by Medicare. Thus, they automatically meet the technical requirements (age or disability) for Medical Assistance eligibility. However, they must still meet the financial (income and asset) criteria.

Important QMB facts:

• QMB is only effective as long as Medicare is active
• There are NO spend-down provisions
• There is NO retroactive eligibility coverage

What if you exceed your Medicare coverage limit?

If you have already have Medicare and are covered by QMB, and the Medicare coverage is exhausted, QMB coverage automatically ends. You must then apply for and use Community Medical Assistance until such time as Medicare is reinstated. Then you must re-apply for new QMB coverage.

Hospital Support Services, Inc. is a Maryland Authorized agency that can help you with the application process for QMB benefits. Please call HSS for details, 410-558-0022, and ask for the QMB Services Department.