> >

Check insurance policies for skilled nursing coverage

9/30/2011 9:23:42 AM by Administrator Account

Home Care by David DiFilippo

Q: What is the going rate for home care these days? ~ S. Smythe, Barrington

    A: The price you pay for skilled nursing care at home varies, depending on the services delivered. Expect to pay around $50 for a home health aide visit, between $80 and $125 for a skilled nursing visit and potentially more for physical, occupational and speech therapy, depending on the condition being treated. Keep in mind such services may be covered by your insurer or Medicare for eligible participants.
   Q: What is the difference between a home health aide and a certified nursing assistant?
   ~ J. Arnold, South Kingstown
   A: Aides who are certified to deliver hands-on care are generally called home health aides in a home care setting and certified nursing assistants in a nursing home setting. Generally, they do the same thing -- they assist with basic care, including tasks such as bathing and dressing. Those who aren't certified by the state, should not be delivering hands-on care, but rather, should restrict their services to providing companionship and help with errands and household chores.
   Q: My mother is receiving home care services following an illness, and Medicare is paying the tab. However, it looks like services will be needed beyond what Medicare will pay for. Are some home care services covered by Medicaid? ~ R. Cimitri, North Providence
   A: Yes, some home care services are covered by Medicaid, but the recipient must be Medicaid-eligible. Medicaid covers long-term services for impoverished individuals only. The state assesses each candidate for physical and financial eligibility. To determine whether your mother would qualify, contact the Rhode Island Division of Elderly Affairs at (401) 462-0571.

   David DiFilippo is the owner of Concord Home Health Services, which specializes in in-home personal assistance such as errands and medication management, as well as skilled nursing services and rehabilitation. Submit questions to kparkcompass@trmcomm.com.

Archive by Years