Medical Assistance (Medicaid) is a needs-based public benefit program. It provides a range of medical services to persons who fall into specific coverage categories (such as age or disability) and who also meet set standards of income and asset limitations. Persons unfamiliar with the program often confuse Medicaid with Medicare. Unlike Medicare, eligibility for Medicaid is not related to a person's insured status under the Social Security Act. Also, Medicaid is state administered and provides more comprehensive coverage than Medicare, particularly with regard to nursing home care.
Medicaid is particularly important for low-income aged and disabled persons because it covers virtually all of the substantial gaps in Medicare insurance. Medicaid pays the Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles and co-insurance for many recipients. Medicaid has no maximum stays for most medically necessary services, including nursing home stays, and will thus pay when Medicare coverage is exhausted; and Medicaid covers services (e.g. dental services, drugs) that are not covered by Medicare.
Medicaid coverage extends to Long Term Care Facilities, Supportive Living Facilities, and the Community Care program which assists people over the age of 60 who are disabled but living at home.
Asset Protection in the context of Medicaid refers to planning to qualify for Medicaid coverage in the event it is required so that less of a person's assets must be paid.
Our firm has extensive experience in understanding both federal and state Medicaid regulations. Dutton & Casey, P.C. attorneys will formulate legal methods to protect your assets from being spent for nursing home care by assisting with Medicaid eligibility.
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