Medicaid is a joint federal and state funded medical assistance program designed to provide health coverage for individuals with limited income and resources. Medicaid eligibility is primarily determined by income, household size and other factors. In a long-term care setting, eligibility also requires applicants to be age 65 or older, blind or disabled as determined by the Social Security Administration. For approved applicants, Medicaid can help cover medical care like nursing home services, physician services, prescriptions, medical supplies and equipment, along with therapies like physical or occupational therapy.
Some nursing communities have dedicated professionals who can guide applicants through the application process including documentation requirements, income verification and other necessary steps required to receive Medicaid eligibility, which is received following approval by a Medicaid case worker. Some communities may accept residents with the status of “Medicaid Pending,” which means they have not yet been formally approved by Medicaid, but expect to be. When long-term care is needed urgently, finding a community that accepts residents with Medicaid Pending status can be very helpful, and is a good indication that the community understands the application process well.
If you or a loved one are considering long-term care and require Medicaid coverage, contact a nursing care provider near you and ask for the Director of Admissions.
