Medicaid is an important program at both the state and national level that gives healthcare assistance to various groups of people who may be experiencing financial hardship. The elderly are one of the main groups that utilize this program for services in nursing homes and related expenses. In order to be eligible to receive assistance through Medicaid, an individual must apply and include information related to their income and medical costs.
Medicaid restrictions may become less stringent
Florida was the first of several states to apply for Medicaid waivers that can be used in times of national emergencies, likely due to the state’s large elderly population. Emergencies such as the coronavirus outbreak and the H1N1 flu during the Obama administration have allowed many to utilize the benefits provided by these waivers. Florida has also applied for waivers during hurricanes and the aftermath of these severe storms. An administrator from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid services said that these waivers essentially allow a state government to get through red tape and protect vulnerable populations more easily. The technical term is an 1135 waiver.
The details of Florida’s waiver include ways for care to be provided in alternative settings, removal of certain authorization requirements, deadline extensions, and quicker enrollment processes. Emergency care can be given without meeting licensing requirements as well. All of this is done in the name of efficiency if lots of people need treatment or are dealing with changed healthcare situations. If an emergency situation worses, even more restrictions can be lifted.
An attorney with the Florida Policy Institute discussed these measures and how they will aid in assisting certain vulnerable populations. She said the Medicaid waivers are an important way to begin to get testing and treatment to individuals that may need these services, but additional measures are often required based on a person’s specific situation. These other measures may include retaining a personal attorney to discuss areas such as known health issues, coverage for medical costs, and estate planning.
Get professional help when planning for the future
Planning for various future issues related to health, finances, and property is a reality of aging. The right attorney can make sure that your family and your assets will be protected in accordance with your wishes. A Medicaid planning attorney assists in a few crucial ways. They can review and make a financial plan, review qualifications and requirements, and determine how to deal with future contingencies that are likely to emerge.
Get assistance with a medicaid plan
To learn more about how to utilize the medicaid program effectively and plan for the future, contact The Baby Boomers’ Barrister. The firm assists all kinds of clients in St. Petersburg and nearby cities in Florida.