How to apply for Senior Care Options (SCO) — one plan for MassHealth and Medicare at 65+ in Massachusetts
MassHealth (Executive Office of Health and Human Services) — delivered through six SCO health plans (Commonwealth Care Alliance, Fallon Health NaviCare, Mass General Brigham SCO, Senior Whole Health, Tufts Health Plan SCO, UnitedHealthcare)
Who it's for
Senior Care Options (SCO) puts MassHealth and Medicare benefits into one health plan, with one card and one care team, for people 65 and older. Each member gets a care coordinator who helps manage care and services. SCO covers medical care, mental health care and prescription drugs, plus extra support services for older adults. Most members pay no or low monthly premiums, no copays, and little or nothing out of pocket for most covered services. SCO plans serve every Massachusetts county. To join, pick a plan for your county and contact it directly. If you are not sure you have MassHealth Standard, call MassHealth at 1-800-841-2900.
You must already have MassHealth Standard and Medicare Parts A and B, and qualify for Medicare Part D. Since January 1, 2026, people with MassHealth Standard but no Medicare cannot stay in SCO. You cannot join while you are in a six-month MassHealth deductible period, an inpatient at a chronic or rehabilitation hospital, or living in an intermediate care facility for people with intellectual disabilities. If you do not have MassHealth yet, apply for MassHealth first.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- MassHealth card (MassHealth Standard coverage)
- Medicare card showing Parts A and B
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-841-2900
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior Care Options (SCO) — one plan for MassHealth and Medicare at 65+. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need massHealth card (MassHealth Standard coverage), medicare card showing Parts A and B — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
follows your annual MassHealth renewal
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.