Medicare for Pancreatic Cancer?

Re Medicaid, I spotted this online:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters/understanding-health-insurance/government-funded-programs/medicaid.html
Basically, it appears each state has different rules, so that sounds like you'd need to contact your state's Medicaid program. It looks like Medicaid is primarily income-dependent, with some additional possibilities. This site doesn't specifically mention pancan. I didn't dig around, but I didn't see a site that mentioned anything about a pancan diagnosis qualifying a patient for Medicaid.

The title of your post mentioned Medicare, though. If that's what you meant, there are options and enrollment deadlines for Medicare as well.

When I was diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer and decided to go on long term disability, I made an appointment with the local SSA office. I first obtained the application form on-line, carefully read the instructions for filling it out and gathered the requested medical documentation. There were forms needed from my healthcare provider regarding my physical condition/limitations. At the SSA meeting, the representative used the information I brought in making the formal application. My application was approved in 11 calendar days.

As for the Medicaid program, additional qualification is based on one’s income level. I was still employed-did not resign, when I filed for long term disability. I received a supplemental income from my employer and SSDI monthly payments until my official retirement which included health and life insurance benefits. When I met the required qualification period, I received Medicare as my primary health insurance and my employer provided secondary coverage until my official retirement date. At that point, there was a seamless transition to Medicare and I was then responsible to purchase a supplemental plan for Medicare Part D.

First apply for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). Pancreatic Cancer qualifies you for a speedier process (though it isn't without its bureaucratic hurdles). With sufficient evidence of your timeline, they may even backdate your start date. Then, as you said, after 2 years you qualify for Medicare. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters/managing-health-insurance/social-security-disability-income-for-people-with-cancer.html

Hi Marcia,
I'm so sorry that you have pancreatic cancer! That's too bad! I would suggest that you call Medicare and ask them about coverage and when. Even if you aren't on Medicare. They are very informative and will direct you to the right thing whether it's SSI or Medicaid or Medicare or some entirely new program.

My husband died in July. I could remain on his insurance for $400 a month and then only for 3 years! I called Medicare and told them my situation and explained that my funds were limited. They found me an insurance that covers everything and is very low cost! I prayed about this and my prayers were definitely answered! I would suggest that you say a prayer and call Medicare. Do be prepared to be on hold an hour! But it's worth it in the long run. You might say a prayer about the length of time you are on hold too!

I wish you the best. I'll say a prayer for you.
PML

Thank you so much! I’m sorry you lost your husband. Prayers work! I will try that

Thank you! Yes I’m on SSDI and in April next year it will be 2 years and I’m told I’ll immediately be enrolled into Medicare.