Medicaid and Medicare assistance

LIBERTY, NY —  Sullivan County’s Medical Assistance (MA) Unit is responsible for a critical portion of Public Assistance: determining eligibility for Medicaid and various related programs. These programs are designed to provide necessary medical, dental and optical care to families who may not otherwise be able to obtain these services. They are based on need and have varying eligibility requirements for groups such as pregnant women, children under age 19 and senior citizens.

For those already receiving MA, spend-downs (similar to a deductible) can be mailed to the Department of Family Services (DFS) at P.O. Box 231, Liberty, NY 12754. They can also be put in one of the drop boxes located in the Travis Building at 16 Community Ln. in Liberty or at the Government Center, 100 North St., Monticello, NY. Leaving cash in a drop-box is strongly discouraged.

Other items to remember when applying for MA: Anyone under 65 who is not receiving Medicare nor in need of waiver services should call 1-855/355-5777 or visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov to apply or to find a local navigator who can assist with the application process. Anyone 65 or older (or anyone under 65 who is in need of waiver services or has Medicare) can fax, mail or drop off a Medicaid application at the Liberty address. The fax number is 845/292-1320.

The DFS office can be reached at 845/292-0100.

Grief support at Wayne Memorial Hospital

HONESDALE, PA — Wayne Memorial Hospital is offering a free support group designed to help people cope with the grieving process. The four-week session will provide support and focus on grief as a normal part of an individual’s transition through life. The sessions will be held Mondays from 6 to 7 p.m. from October 5 through October 26 in the Chatlos Conference Room on the second floor of Wayne Memorial Hospital.

Participants will be encouraged to explore their own solutions to the challenges and changes of experiencing a loss. The support group will be facilitated by Rev. Edward K. Erb and Anna Walsh. The group will provide a safe place in which individuals can sort out their feelings and share as they are able and willing. No one will be required to share. Your experience will be enhanced by attending all sessions; however, it is understandable if you cannot attend some. You may enter or exit at any time.

To register, visit www.wmh.org. For more information, email edwardkerb@aol.com or walsha@wmh.org.