Traditionally, Medicaid has paid for long-term care in a nursing home, but because most individuals would rather be cared for at home and home care is cheaper, all 50 states now have Medicaid programs that offer at least some home care. In some states, even family members can get paid for providing care at home.
Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health insurance coverage to low-income children, seniors, and people with disabilities. In addition, it covers care in a nursing home for those who qualify. Medicaid home care services are typically provided through home- and community-based services “waiver” programs to individuals who need a high level of care, but who would like to remain at home.
According to George Vasiliadis, “In Pennsylvania, some seniors can receive Medicaid benefits for nursing home level care at home rather than entering or remaining in a nursing home.” Various “Waiver” programs permit home Medicaid. These are government approved expansions to Medicaid law, which normally permits payment only for care in a nursing home. However, Mr. Vasiliadis explains, “There is a monthly “income cap”, currently $2,313, preventing applicants whose income exceeds that amount from qualifying, so depending on your particular circumstances, home Medicaid may not be practical or a desirable alternative to nursing home care.”
Contact us to learn how Medicare can help pay for your long-term care.