Senior News
Montana’s Big Sky Rx Program, or BSRx for short, is a state pharmaceutical assistance program that helps seniors by providing financial assistance to cover the costs of their Medicare Part D premiums. Depending on the individual and the Medicare Part D plan in which they are enrolled, the financial assistance could pay as much as the entire monthly premium (up to $38.90). This program is managed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and is funded by a tax on tobacco products.
When determining eligibility, assets do not count as income. A person’s “nest egg” (IRAs, stocks, bonds, savings accounts) does not count, but the interest or dividends you pull from them to live on is considered income.
We ask about assets to determine if a person needs to fill out an application for Social Security Extra Help — a federal program that can help with Medicare Part D copays, deductibles, and premiums.
Who qualifies for Big Sky Rx?
• Be a Montana resident
• Be on Medicare and have not received Medicaid in the last 12 months.
• Have an annual family income less than about $27,180 if single or about $36,620 if married and living together (this income changes with the household size and changes annually).
This program is open to residents statewide and there are no specific enrollment periods throughout the year.
To apply, submit an application online at https://dphhs. mt.gov/assets/hrd/Big-SkyRxApplication.pdf, call 866-369-1233, or download an application and mail it to Big Sky Rx Program, PO Box 202915, Helena, MT 596202915.
Roosevelt County Aging Services also has access to these applications, and we are more than happy to assist you filling it out online or printing you a copy.
Contact Julie or Alyssa at 406-653-6221, Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM with any questions you may have.
