Medicare and Skilled Nursing Facilities

The Medicare system can be very complicated.  It can become even more complicated when seniors are hospitalized, and then need care in a skilled nursing facility.
If you are elderly, have a history of hospitalizations, have Alzheimer’s/dementia, or stroke related issues, you may require future care in a skilled nursing facility.  Your choice of Medicare plans is extremely important, as the skilled nursing facility available will be dependant upon your chosen insurance plan.  Choices are limited because the skilled nursing facility must have a contract with your Medicare plan.  You may not like the ones available to you under your Medicare plan.
Choose your plan (and supplement) wisely, and don’t be swayed by the very slick television advertisements.  We often see seniors with original Medicare and a great supplement, later switch to an HMO or Advantage Plan during open enrollment.  Although they think they have made a cost-effective choice, they are often horrified with their limited facility choices when skilled nursing care is needed.  The quality of the facility can often make a “life or death” difference, and at a minimum, affect your quality of life.
You must be informed, and contact the plan before enrollment.  Ask what facilities are within their network and/or plan.  Does the plan pay for co-payments if skilled nursing is needed? Seniors and the elderly must be realistic and objective about their health care needs.
The McNamara Law Firm, PC may be contacted at 661-287-3260.  Our websites are: www.theMcNamaraLawFirm.com and www.VAbenefits4seniors.com.