McKenzie Health System is proud to announce that Louise Blasius, LMSW, LPC, Director of Human Services, has recently received her certification as a Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) Counselor.

“Since beginning her training in May 2016 by the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) through Region VII Area Agency on Aging, Blasius has been able to help Sanilac County seniors who have Medicare through the annual prescription drug plan enrollment period,” shares Steve Barnett, McKenzie Health System President/CEO.  “She has also assisted limited income Sanilac seniors obtain low income subsidies for their Medicare costs and has educated seniors about health insurance issues. We’re pleased to offer her services to the community.”

At the 2016 Senior Citizen’s Fair, Blasius co-presented with the Region VII Area Agency on Aging on the MMAP. In addition, she has helped seniors make informed choices between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans, or find a Medigap policy that fits their needs and budget.  She also assists Sanilac seniors apply for Medicaid, especially if they have a spouse in a nursing home or need help with their co-pays or deductibles.  Blasius has aided families with children and adults without insurance get much needed coverage as well.

“I’m pleased to say I have helped over 80 people since being trained,” reports Blasius.  “I am also committed to staying up-to-date on Medicare/Medicaid, and I’ve been trained to respond to suspected Medicare or Medicaid fraud, although no one has approached  me with any evidence of such fraud in our community.”

For more information about the MMAP and how Blasius’ services might be of assistance to area residents, please call her at McKenzie Health System, 810-648-6181.