Q: What does Medicare cover?

A: Medicare is a short-term federal program providing funds according to medical need. To qualify, the resident must meet strict medical guidelines requiring a skilled nursing facility. Your facility will determine if your family member qualifies and will fill out the forms with you. When your family member is on Medicare, his case is continually monitored by a team of staff members to make sure he qualifies. The home will notify you when Medicare benefits will end.

To view a summary of Medicare benefits, click here.

Q: What is Medicaid?

A: Medicaid is a federal program administered by state agencies, based on financial need, and the medical necessity for nursing facility care. Although the benefits last indefinitely, the state reviews all Medicaid residents periodically to make sure they continue to qualify both financially and medically.

Q: What does supplemental or long-term insurance cover?

A: Insurance coverage is available to cover certain costs of nursing facility care. Some plans will supplement Medicare or Medicaid coverage and cover expenses beyond what these plans cover. Others pay for a portion of daily expense for a set amount of days in a nursing facility. These policies may be in the form of supplemental or long-term insurance. If your family member has such insurance coverage, bring a copy of the policy to the attention of the nursing facility. Work with the administrative staff to discuss how they want to file claims to get the best benefits.