MassHealth and waiting for long-term care facility admittance

On Behalf of | Nov 15, 2022 | elder law, Nursing Home Planning

For people in Massachusetts who are getting older and have health and safety in mind, wondering how they will get the care they need is a concern that commonly comes to the forefront. They and their loved ones will increasingly consider their options to ensure they are protected and can thrive. For many, a long-term care facility is the ideal choice. However, paying for it is always worrisome. This is where MassHealth could be of great benefit.

When trying to get approved for MassHealth, you may face frequent obstacles that you need to navigate. Among the most challenging issues are preserving assets, rules of eligibility and meeting all the requirements for having MassHealth pay for the care. Those who are waiting to enter a long-term care facility must be aware of the intricate details of their application for MassHealth. Having advice from those who understand these issues in depth can be essential.

What should I know when I apply for MassHealth and wait for admittance into a facility?

People who need nursing care, rehabilitation, care for a chronic disease or are intellectually disabled can get the supervision and treatment they need at a long-term care facility. In short, people who need significant attention can get it at a long-term care facility. Generally, they need medical treatment, help with their fundamental needs and are in a position where family members may not be able to provide the level of care that their loved one needs.

To be eligible for MassHealth, the person must be at least 65; between the ages of 21 and 64 and be disabled according to the Social Security Administration’s disability rules; be pregnant or are under 21. MassHealth needs to determine that the applicant needs long-term care. Crucially, their assets and a spouse’s assets must be within a certain limited range.

For MassHealth approval, the applicant must be a resident of Massachusetts. The applicant must provide Social Security information. The assets the person owns must be below the current limits for MassHealth. There is a formula that is used to come to this determination. The countable assets, like investments, real property—apart from a home—and other assets will be assessed. There are certain assets that the person can keep, including $2,000. The spouse can also retain a certain level of assets.

Contacting professionals experienced with MassHealth can be imperative to a case

Since MassHealth is a need-based program that is specific to Massachusetts, it is wise to have guidance from those who are based in the area, have extensive experience with helping people in the state and can provide tailored representation that addresses their needs and concerns.

There may be conflicted feelings about getting a loved one the care they need and fear as to how the care will negatively affect their finances and property. MassHealth strives to avoid the worst-case scenario, help those who need the assistance and provide comprehensive solutions. When seeking legal guidance, they should keep the same thing in mind.

Getting the proper care for a person’s health and age need not be complicated and draining, personally and financially. For help with all aspects of a case from waiting to be admitted, filling out the forms correctly, appealing denied MassHealth claims and any other challenge that comes up, consulting with qualified professionals in elder law is a key aspect of a case and can give everyone involved peace of mind.