Understanding when you need a Medicare Set-Aside (MSA) is crucial, particularly if an individual is eligible for Medicare due to traditional Social Security or Social Security Disability. An MSA ensures that funds from a settlement are allocated to cover future medical expenses that otherwise would have been paid by Medicare.
Purpose of a Medicare Set-Aside
Medicare acts as a secondary payer, which means other available insurance sources must cover medical expenses first. In workers’ compensation or liability situations, if the case is contested, Medicare might initially cover medical expenses until liability is determined. These payments are considered conditional. Once resolved, Medicare expects reimbursement for these payments if another payer is responsible.
Importance of an MSA
For Medicare-eligible injured workers or liability claimants considering a settlement, an MSA becomes critical. It ensures that funds from the settlement specifically cover future medical expenses that Medicare would typically handle. It's essential because, despite settlement, Medicare remains a secondary payer. The settlement doesn't change that status but shifts the responsibility for future medical costs to the settling party from the insurance company.
Key Points to Remember
Medicare's Role: As a secondary payer, Medicare insists all other insurance must pay first before it covers medical expenses.
Post-Settlement Responsibilities: After a settlement, the responsibility for future medical expenses shifts away from the insurer and onto the individual involved in the settlement.
