Senior benefits in Washita County, Oklahoma

The South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) in Burns Flat runs the Area Agency on Aging for Washita 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

Cordell Memorial Hospital provides charity care to people who are uninsured, underinsured, ineligible for a government program, or otherwise unable to pay for medically necessary care. To be eligible, family income may not exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. On the sliding scale, people at or below 150% pay $0, people at 175% pay 50%, and people at 200% pay 80%. Ask a Business Office Representative for a Financial Assistance Application; you have 6 months from the date of service to ask, and the completed application must be returned within 10 working days. Attach proof of income (tax return or the last 2 months of pay stubs), the last 2 months of bank statements, and a denial from Medicaid. The form must be renewed every 6 months. Call 580-832-3339.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Red River Public Transportation Service, run by Community Action Development Corporation (CADC) in Frederick, provides rural public transportation in Washita County and other western Oklahoma counties. Rides are open to the public and go to medical appointments, dialysis, work, shopping, and more; trips can also be scheduled to Oklahoma City and Lawton. All vehicles are lift- or ramp-equipped. Seniors 55 and older and people with disabilities pay lower rates on longer trips: for example $20.00 instead of $30.00 for 31–50 miles, and $30.00 instead of $45.00 for 51–100 miles (round-trip mileage). Call toll free 1-800-524-5552.

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