OUR SERVICESThe following list explains the common ways people pay for home care services:
Medicaid: Home care services are covered by Medicaid in New York State. Medicaid usually determines the amount of home care hours and the agency that will provide the services. For more information, call the HRA Infoline at 1-877-472-8411.
Medicare: Home care services are not covered by Medicare. However, Medicare will sometimes cover a minimal amount of services for a limited time if there is a medical need for skilled care (for example, nursing services or rehabilitation therapy). These services must be provided by a Certified Home Health Agency (CHHA).
Private Insurance: Private insurance (Blue Cross/Blue Shield, AARP, Prudential, etc.) usually does not cover home care services. However, check your policy to be sure.
Long Term Care Insurance: Long term care insurance often covers home care services; most policies have specific criteria for eligibility. Consult a representative of your insurance carrier for a detailed explanation of services covered.
Private Pay: If none of the above will cover the cost of home care services, you will have to pay privately. Consider having a family discussion about sharing the cost of home care services.
Special Programs: Unique Long Term Home Health programs, like the one offered at the Jewish Home Lifecare, are for people who require skilled nursing services and coordinated care and choose to live at home. Long Term Home Health Care programs are especially helpful for people with chronic conditions like diabetes, neurological disorders, and heart disease. To find out if you qualify, contact Connections, our central information and referral line, at (212) 870-5919 or 1-800-544-0304.