Medicaid is currently the biggest health insurer in America, with fifty-three million people reaping the benefits of Medicaid coverage. It is a federal and state program that provides health coverage to individuals with limited income and resources, but differs from Medicare in how it acts as a separate government-run program that typically serves different groups of people, funded by different parts of the government. While Medicare focuses on providing healthcare to all individuals over the age of 65 along with those with disabilities, Medicaid focuses primarily on those with limited financial resources.
If your loved ones are eligible for both programs, they can use waiver programs for the medical care they need, depending on the respective coverage of said waivers. The Medicaid waiver program permits the federal government to waive rules that normally apply to the Medicaid program. The intention is to let the different states reduce costs, increase coverage, or improve care for some groups such as the elderly. Thanks to these waivers, states can provide services to residents that wouldn’t usually be covered by Medicaid.
Different Types of Medicaid Waivers
There are several different types of Medicaid waivers, with each waiver differing in its intended purpose. Section 1115 waivers are often referred to as research and demonstration waivers, and allow states to temporarily test out new approaches to providing Medicaid services to their customers. Section 1915 (c) waivers are referred to as Home and Community based waivers and are designed to allow states to provide home and community-based services to those in need of long-term care, by delivering the medical care they need directly to their doorstep. Section 1915 (b) waivers refer to Freedom of Choice waivers, providing Medicaid to those in need through managed care delivery systems. Combined section 1915 (b) and (c) waivers allow states to provide home and community-based services through contracts with managed care organizations defined in section 1915 (b). Understanding the difference between the various Medicaid waivers would be essential in reaping the full benefits and accessing the appropriate long-term care required.
Benefits
Those eligible for Medicaid, more specifically Home and Community Based Waivers, are able to receive medical attention while remaining in their own home or community instead of being transferred to a specialized institution. Receiving treatment at home has shown to reap extensive benefits. It allows your loved ones to remain in a comfortable and familiar setting, improving not only their physical recovery time but also improving mental health, such as complications related to dementia. Family members and caregivers would also have peace of mind, as they are able to constantly check up on their elderly loved ones.
Issues
Medicaid waivers are not a right, and not everyone is eligible for this waiver. While those in need of nursing home care may be immediately offered a place, the Home and Community Based waiver program is seen as a privilege. Hence, most people usually end up on a waiting list for years before being considered for this Medicaid waiver.
Let Morada Abilene Care for Your Loved Ones
Seeking the appropriate care for your loved ones is of paramount importance, despite the issues. Apply for Medicaid waivers if necessary at Morada Abilene, where we offer the Assisted Living option, providing your loved ones with assistance in daily living activities. Residents enjoy professional care services 24/7, regular housekeeping and maintenance, a full calendar of activities, three chef-prepared meals a day, and more! Feel free to contact us if you have any questions!
