Senior benefits in Jackson County, Oklahoma

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

The Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS, often called DHS) Human Services Center for Jackson County is at 201 S Main St., Altus, OK 73521, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EBT cards are available there. Older adults and people with disabilities can get help applying for SNAP food benefits, SoonerCare (Medicaid for people 65 or older or with a disability), and energy help through LIHEAP. Many services can also be done online at okdhslive.org. For help with benefits applications, call 405-522-5050. To report abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult (Adult Protective Services), call 1-800-522-3511.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Jackson County Memorial Hospital (JCMH) in Altus provides free and discounted (charity) care to people who are uninsured, underinsured, ineligible for a government health program, or otherwise unable to pay for medically necessary care. Eligibility is based on financial need compared with the Federal Poverty Levels. Uninsured self-pay patients with income below 300% of the poverty guidelines can also ask for a discount based on estimated Medicare payment. Dates of service up to two years before the application can be considered, and an approval is valid for six months. Download the Financial Assistance Application from JCMH.com or ask Patient Access, and send it with proof of income to a Financial Counselor in person or by fax at 580-379-5099. Call a Financial Counselor at 580-379-5050.

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 Jackson County, rides are available in Altus (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 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