Navigating Medicare and Medicaid for In-Home Care
If you or a loved one is in need of in-home care, you may be wondering how you can afford it. Fortunately, Medicare and Medicaid can help cover the costs of home health care services, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. However, navigating these programs can be confusing and overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll break down what you need to know about Medicare and Medicaid for in-home care.
Medicare for In-Home Care
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people who are 65 or older, as well as for those under 65 with certain disabilities. Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, while Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, including home health care services. To be eligible for home health care under Medicare, you must meet the following criteria:
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You must be under the care of a doctor who has ordered home health care services for you.
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You must be homebound, meaning it is difficult for you to leave your home without the help of another person or a mobility aid.
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You must need skilled nursing care on an intermittent basis, or physical therapy or speech-language pathology services.
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The home health care agency providing your care must be Medicare-certified.
If you meet these criteria, Medicare will cover the cost of your home health care services, including nursing care, therapy, and medical equipment. However, you will be responsible for paying 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each service.
Medicaid for In-Home Care
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for people with low incomes, including those who are elderly or disabled. Medicaid covers a wide range of health care services, including in-home care. However, eligibility requirements vary by state.
To be eligible for Medicaid in New Hampshire, you must meet the following criteria:
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You must be a resident of New Hampshire.
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You must be a U.S. citizen or have satisfactory immigration status.
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You must meet certain income and asset requirements.
If you are eligible for Medicaid, it will cover the cost of your home health care services, including nursing care, therapy, and medical equipment. However, you may be required to pay a small copayment for some services.
Working with a Home Health Care Agency
When choosing a home health care agency, it’s important to choose one that is Medicare-certified and/or Medicaid-approved. Additionally, you’ll want to choose an agency that meets your specific needs and preferences.
At 360 SHS, we understand that every individual has unique needs and preferences. That’s why we offer a range of home health care services, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respite care. Our team of compassionate and experienced caregivers is dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your needs and promotes your independence.
Don’t let the cost of in-home care prevent you or your loved one from receiving the care you need. With Medicare and Medicaid, you may be able to receive the care you need at little to no cost. To learn more about our home health care services, contact us today. To get in touch with us, please click here or call us at (603) 801-1936