Hiring A Home Care Provider – Medicaid Now Covers Some In-Home Senior Care

Hiring a home care provider can now be an affordable option for more families, many of whom find it far preferable to taking their elderly loved ones to a senior home. All 50 states in the nation now offer Medicaid options for in-home senior care, through the Home & Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver. This waiver allows seniors to remain in their homes, independent to varying degrees, as long as possible. Pennsylvania’s waiver plan even provides for modifications to be made to a senior’s residence, like grab bars or ramps, and respite care for the caregivers of seniors.

Since Medicaid is largely controlled by each individual state, the specifics will vary from state to state.  However, in general, those who qualify for Medicaid can now receive waivers which can “pay” for home care provider services, greatly reducing or eliminating their out-of-pocket cost.

Let’s take a look at what this means for our fellow Pennsylvanians.

PA Medicaid Waiver Requirements in 2016

Pennsylvania’s requirements may change, so you should always contact a professional for up-to-date information before making any major decisions. Some counties have a long waiting list, and people in emergency situations are enrolled first.

Currently to qualify for the Medicaid waiver in PA:

• The recipient must be at least 60 years of age and live in Pennsylvania.
• The recipient must receive less than $2,199/month income.
• If married, the non-applicant spouse must make less than $2980.50/mo.
• Individual assets must be less than $8,000.  However, if married, assets up to $119,220 can be transferred to the spouse without affecting qualification.
• Individuals making more than those limits, but requiring expensive medical care, may still qualify if their remaining disposable income is no more than $425/mo.

Additionally, in some cases, financial planning professionals may be able to re-arrange an applicant’s assets -such as putting them into trusts- so that they qualify.  In short, an elderly individual may qualify for these Medicaid home care provider waivers in various ways.

What Is Covered by PA Home Care Waivers?

Nearly any expenses related to in-home care can potentially be covered by the Medicaid waiver.  These include:

• Daily living services
• Personal caregivers
• Transportation and companion services
• Home or vehicle accessibility modifications
• In-home health equipment and supplies
• Financial management
• Meal delivery systems
• Counseling
• Personal Emergency Response (PER) options
• Respite care for caregivers

How to Apply for PA Medicaid Services

In Pennsylvania, the applications are handled on a county-by-county basis, so there is no single universal form.  The PA Department of Human Resources has a webpage which can direct you to your local Area Agency on Aging to begin the process.

Does Neighborly Home Care Accept Medicaid Waivers?

Yes!  In fact, Neighborly Home Care has been working with Medicaid for many years.  We make it a top priority to find ways to make in-home care affordable for as many people as possible.

For more information on your financial options, contact Neighborly Home Care with your questions.

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Neighborly Home Care is a leading provider of in home care for seniors in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Chester and Delaware County. Our caregivers are all certified nursing assistants, or they have received equivalent training and passed a nurse aid skills assessment test.

Tags: Home Care Provider