Medicaid is a federal and state program administered by the state that covers the majority of an individual's long-term care costs in a skilled nursing home.
How do I know if one will qualify for Medicaid benefits?
Individuals applying for Medicaid must meet strict financial criteria. Generally, a person can have no more than $13,800, a small amount of life insurance, a prepaid funeral, and a car. Once qualified for benefits, monthly income (such as social security) is paid to the nursing home, less $50 for a personal needs account and the premium on a Medicare supplemental plan and/or private health insurance. The rules are much more complicated if the individual has a spouse at home.
Is it difficult to apply for Medicaid?
In a word, YES. There is an extensive amount of information requested by the Medicaid intake office. Medicaid requires up to 5 years of bank statements, copies of all financial transactions, explanations concerning any transfers made during that time period, and copies of legal instruments, such as trusts. Failure to comply with requests for information could lead to loss of coverage or denial of benefits. It is not unusual for an application to take 4 - 5 months to complete. With complications, it could stretch to 6 - 9 months.
Is Summit Health Care Solutions a law firm?
NO. We process Medicaid applications and work with families to answer questions presented by Medicaid examiners. It is your right to obtain independent counsel to answer a question about a legal matter.
What if I have an attorney?
Summit will work with your attorney in the proccessing of the Medicaid application only. We do not do estate planning or give legal advice.
Will the Summit Case Manager actually go to the
YES. Any required document that you do not have easy access to we will obtain.
Do I need to attend the Medicaid interview appointment?
NO, the Summit Case Manager will represent your loved one and attend the interview appointment so you don't have to.
What if the patient dies before the application is approved?
Generally, the flat fee is non-refundable. However, Summit will review the circumstances and may make an appropriate adjustment.
How do I get started?
Call us toll free at (866) 404-7427.
