People seeking homecare services for themselves or for a family member may be concerned with how the service is to be paid for. There are a number of sources of funding people use to cover the cost.
Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to people who are disabled or over 65. It consists of four parts, each covering different types of medical services. Medicare will cover the cost of services for members who meet eligibility requirements that include satisfying the definition of "homebound" and the ongoing need for skilled services such as nursing or physical therapy. Medicare is not a needs-based plan so the member's financial situation does not affect eligibility one way or another.
Medicaid:
Often confused with Medicare, Medicaid is a joint federal and state program designed to fund healthcare services for children, seniors or people with disabilities. Every state offers Medicaid although some states may use another name for the program - for example in California it is called Medi-Cal and Arizona Medicaid is called AHCCCS (pronounced "access"). Medicaid is needs based and to be eligible the member must meet a set of guidelines regarding income and assets.
Employer Insurance Programs:
Most health insurance people have through their employer includes coverage for homecare services. The benefits and eligibility vary widely so it is difficult to give general guidelines. Consult with your insurance company or with the provider to confirm benefits before initiating service.
Worker's Compensation:
Although retirees make up a large segment of those who need homecare services, people injured on the job often need homecare after surgery or hospitalization to complete their recovery process. Homecare is included along with other medical services required for recovery.
State Block Grants:
The federal government gives social services grants to states each year, allowing them significant leeway in how these grants are spent. Some of this money is used by states to fund programs for state residents. Your state health department may be able to tell you more.
Veteran's Administration:
The VA pays for homecare services for veterans who were at least 50% disabled after receiving a service-related injury or illness.
Third Party Liability:
If another party is responsible for the injury, illness or disability then homecare services may be part of the settlement reached.
Self Pay:
When all other sources have been used, some expenses may fall to the patient or the family to pay.
The examples above are some of the most common methods of paying for homecare services. State initiatives, charitable foundations or other sources of funding may be available in your area. Homecare providers may know of local programs that will help pay for some of the care needed. Homecare is a growing need in this country and new ways are being found to finance the costs involved.
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