Senior benefits in Greer County, Oklahoma

The South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) in Burns Flat runs the Area Agency on Aging for Greer County and seven other southwestern counties. It serves people 60 and older and their caregivers with information and assistance, respite, the long-term care ombudsman, senior nutrition, outreach, short-term in-home help, transportation, health promotion, and legal services. SWODA also provides case management for people on the ADvantage Medicaid program and a reduced-cost eyeglasses program for people with lower incomes. Call SWODA Information & Assistance at 580-562-4882 (toll free 1-800-627-4882).

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

Mangum Regional Medical Center offers financial assistance, including charity, discounted care, and payment plans, to patients who cannot afford medically necessary care. Its plain-language summary uses a sliding scale based on household income: up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines gets a 100% discount, and 201% to 300% gets a 75% discount. Eligible patients are not charged more than amounts generally billed to insured patients. To apply, download and complete the Financial Assistance Application and turn it in with supporting documentation to the Financial Counselor, a Patient Account Representative, or the hospital Business Office. Staff can also help you apply for Medicaid. Call 580-782-3353.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Southwest Transit, run by Southwest Oklahoma Community Action Group (SOCAG), provides demand-response public transportation in Jackson, Harmon, and Greer counties. In Greer County, rides are available in Mangum (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Granite (8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Monday through Friday. Rides between the towns of Altus, Hollis, Mangum, and Granite are limited. Southwest Transit is also a provider for Modivcare, which arranges rides to medical appointments for SoonerCare members. Call 580-482-5043 to ask about availability and fares.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year