Many Florida seniors rely on Medicaid for long-term care coverage. Medicaid waivers can cover expenses like nursing home care, but there are several key details families need to know.
One common mistake families make is relying on nursing home professionals for information about Medicaid. Admissions staff may not provide complete information about Florida Medicaid.
What are some things you should know that a nursing home might not tell you? Read on as we explore these issues.
Nursing Homes Might Not Tell You About These Florida Medicaid Facts
You Have Home Care Options
Most families think of nursing homes when considering Medicaid for long-term care. However, Florida residents have Medicaid options for home care services. These options help seniors stay in their homes while receiving the care they need. They can cover care needs like personal care, skilled nursing visits, medical equipment, meal services, and more.
Nursing home staff may not be aware of these programs and have no obligation to inform families. Additionally, their revenue depends on keeping beds full, so discussing home care isn’t in their financial interest. That’s why families should explore all their options before consulting a nursing home.
Details of the Look-Back Period
A nursing home’s primary function is providing care. Their only role in explaining Medicaid is insofar as it helps them with admissions. One critical detail they might overlook is Medicaid’s look-back period for asset transfers.
When a senior applies for nursing home or home care through Medicaid, the state performs a financial review. The review covers asset transfers made within the previous 60 months. If the senior gave away or sold assets below market value, Medicaid might impose a penalty period.
These rules are complex and easy to get wrong. Nursing home staff might not fully understand them either. Any mistake could leave families needing to cover high care costs during the penalty period.
Medicaid May Try to Recover Assets
The admissions staff is also unlikely to tell families about Medicaid estate recovery. Under estate recovery, the state may seek to recover assets from the senior’s estate upon their passing. The recovery process can come as a shock to families if they are not aware of it.
Nursing homes might not discuss it because they have no role in recovery. The process also has no impact on their operations. Some may not mention it because they worry it might deter families from applying for nursing home Medicaid.
These facilities provide vital care, but they aren’t responsible for explaining the full picture of Medicaid. Families should learn about their Medicaid options and their implications before applying for coverage.
Working with an elder law attorney provides a clearer understanding of your options. Additionally, an attorney can advise on long-term care planning and asset protection strategies.
Do you need help navigating Florida Medicaid? Contact the Scott Law Offices for assistance. Our team is ready to help you maximize coverage while optimizing asset protection.
