April 4, 2012

Bettendorf Health Care Center Medicaid Program (Title 19)

By Roger Brann
Administrator
Bettendorf Health Care

Up to 75 percent of residents living in a nursing home today are living there under the Medicaid program.

Many seniors entering a nursing facility do not have funds available to pay for their room and board privately. In these cases, they must apply for the Medicaid program. This can take four to six weeks for a decision.

It is important to know that you cannot have more than $2,000 in cash or assets, such as a house, in order to qualify for Medicaid. Therefore, if a senior citizen owns a property, it is best that the property be sold prior to going into a nursing home.

When you are approved to live in a nursing home under the Medicaid program, you are still required to give your monthly income to the facility minus $50. Therefore, if you receive a monthly social security check or pension, that revenue must be paid to the nursing home. That will be your portion of the financial responsibility owed to the nursing home. The remaining balance owed to the nursing home will be paid by Medicaid.

While living in a nursing facility, all of your medications, medical supplies, meals, and nursing care are included. You have no further out of pocket expenses.

Many seniors feel badly that they eventually have to be on Medicaid. This is not uncommon. However, please know that you are not alone. Up to 75 percent of residents living in a nursing home today are living there under the Medicaid program. Their assets have been depleted.

If you would like to know more about the Medicaid program, you may contact the Centralized Facility Eligibility Unit toll free at 1-877-344-9628 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm.