Audio Series
COBRA - teleconference - mp3
Victor Makris, J.D., with Makris Law Firm LLC will help answer your questions on available Social Security programs, such as:
- What is Social Security Disability (SSD)?
- What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- Who can receive benefits?
- What do you have to prove to receive benefits?
- How much can you receive?
- How do you apply for benefits and what supporting information will you need?
- Listen to presentation - Part 1 & Part 2
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Resources
Health Insurance Option: Medicaid Buy-In
People of any age who have a disability and are working can now get their health insurance through Medicaid by paying a monthly premium.
Medicare Prescription Drug Program
Medicare is the federally-funded health insurance program for everyone older than 65 and for people with disabilities. Medicare now covers prescription drugs through approved private plans.
Texas Health Options
Texas Health options is a State of Texas resource for finding health insurance coverage. Their website will connect you to a variety of resources, including Texas CHAP, a consumer assistance program that can assist Texans with questions and issues about their health coverage.
Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool
The Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool offers health insurance to state residents who are unable to obtain health insurance because of their medical condition or who are considered federally eligible individuals as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996.
Disability Resources
This section provides additional information on planning for health coverage needs, staying covered when changes occur, other types of insurance important to people with MS and more.
Together Rx Access® Card
A prescription savings program supported by leading pharmaceutical companies to help eligible individuals and their families gain access to the medicines they need to take care of their health.
The Chronic Disease Fund
A non-profit organization that helps underinsured patients with chronic disease obtain the expensive medications they need. They assist patients who meet income qualification guidelines and have private insurance or a Medicare Part D plan but cannot afford the co-payments for their specialty therapeutics. They pay the patient’s out-of-pocket costs directly to the provider, eliminating the cash flow problems that can prevent you from getting your medications.
Independent Living Resources
Affordable, Accessible Housing
When it comes to living well with MS, accessible affordable housing can be critical to maintaining independence and remaining engaged in the community. Whether seeking to renegotiate a mortgage, arrange home modifications, apply for rental vouchers, or explore affordable assisted living; navigating the maze of agencies and funding sources supporting these alternatives and services can be daunting. The Society’s Affordable, Accessible Housing: A Guide for People with MS (.pdf) helps evaluate housing needs and better understand the range of housing options available to people living with MS.
My Life, My Decision, My MS
Free online classes are available through this four-module series that teaches skills and resources to enhance decision-making abilities on important health care topics. The four classes are Teaming Up with Health Care Providers, Navigating the Medication Maze, Considering Clinical Trials and Achieving Optimal Wellness. Click here to register.
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
Transportation Resources
Find accessible transportation near you.