Senior benefits in Roger Mills County, Oklahoma

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

Roger Mills Memorial Hospital in Cheyenne, a critical access hospital, has a charity application for patients who cannot pay their hospital bill. The hospital reviews each application against your household size, income and assets and approves or denies it in writing. Attach a copy of your most recent tax return, proof of all sources of income, and a copy of your denial letter from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (SoonerCare). The hospital does not publish income limits, so call the Business Office at 580-497-3336 to ask how much help is available. Mail the application to Roger Mills Memorial Hospital, PO Box 219, Cheyenne, OK 73628, or bring it to 501 South L.L. Males Avenue.

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 Roger Mills 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