Section 131E. The commission shall administer a program of medical assistance for blind persons who reside in the commonwealth which shall in all respects be consistent with title XIX of the federal Social Security Act and amendments thereto, and with chapter one hundred and eighteen E and the state medical care plan and regulations established thereunder. The benefits of the program shall be available to all persons eligible for supplemental security income payments on account of blindness under the provisions of title XVI of the federal Social Security Act or for assistance under section one hundred and thirty-one. Such benefits shall be available to all others who would be eligible for financial assistance under either of the foregoing provisions but for income or resources, provided they meet the requirements of financial eligibility established pursuant to said chapter one hundred and eighteen E.