As life expectancies and long term care costs continue to rise, the challenge quickly becomes how to pay for these services. Many people cannot afford to pay the cost, and those who can pay for a while may find their life savings wiped out in a matter of months, rather than years. Fortunately, our New York and New Jersey attorneys specialize in assisting seniors and their families deal with the Medicaid process and the various steps and implications in planning for the elderly.
A common misconception is understanding the difference between Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare is a system of health care for citizens over 65 (or disabled). Medicare is available to anyone who has worked. However, Medicare is limited — it’s only a limited health care service. Medicare doesn’t pay for chronic illness; only for hospital stays. Medicare also doesn’t pay for long-term home care services or skilled nursing facilities, two very expensive costs that can deplete a bank account or force someone to move.
The best way to plan for the shortcomings of Medicare is by correctly applying for Medicaid. The Medicaid application is an exhaustive process and must conform within the policies and regulations of the New York and New Jersey. Our attorneys have years of experience assisting clients in successfully applying and filing Medicaid applications. Additionally, we assist families with choosing the proper Managed Long Term Care provider (MLTC), and/or nursing homes of their choice. Medicaid recipients receive comprehensive health insurance, hospital care, doctors and long term care, such as, home care services or nursing home care.