Useful links
Medicare: Medicare is health insurance for people age
65 or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis),
and any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis
or a kidney transplant).
www.medicare.gov
Medicaid: The Medicaid Program provides medical benefits
to groups of low-income people, some who may have no medical insurance or inadequate
medical insurance. Although the Federal government establishes general guidelines
for the program, the Medicaid program requirements are established by each State.
Whether or not a person is eligible for Medicaid will depend on the State where
he or she lives.
www.cms.hhs.gov/home/medicaid.asp
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income: To apply
for SSI, an individual must be over the age of 65, blind, or disabled. Social Security
considers ALS a presumptive disability. Therefore, ALS patients may be eligible
to apply for SSI disability benefits.
www.ssa.gov
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): In September
2008, the VA established ALS as a presumptive compensable illness. All veterans
with ALS who have 90 days or more of continuously active service in the military
may receive support for themselves and their families.
www.va.gov