With the seasonal employment swing on Cape Cod, we and our patients are lost in the maze of Commonwealth Care and Medical Security Program (MSP) enrollment. There are new applications, coverage gaps, frustration and confusion at every turn. Perhaps those of you on the North Shore and in the Berkshires are having a similar experience.
During the recent round of MassHealth Training Forum meetings, we were informed that commercial fishermen who are eligible for the Fishing Partnership Health Plan are not eligible for Commonwealth Care, because they are eligible for another state-subsidized health plan. The non-profit FPHP is a fine program offering a great benefit package through Harvard Pilgrim. The premium subsidy of approximately 50% is funded by a combination of federal, state and private benefactor dollars. This is a great option for many fishermen.
