Medicaid is a program that helps tens of millions of Americans get medical treatment that they might not be able to afford otherwise. While Medicaid can certainly make your life easier if you qualify, there are certain steps you must follow which can be confusing depending on your personal situation.
Planning for Medicaid is something you can undertake on your own or with help from professionals at a nursing home you choose to apply for. However, there are crucial reasons why you may want to talk to a lawyer about your Medicaid planning instead.
Understanding the rules of eligibility
A lawyer with experience in elder law can help you understand the complicated rules of eligibility for Medicaid. The federal Medicaid website outlines the basic eligibility requirements, including both financial and non-financial criteria. Medicaid eligibility is not always a one-size-fits-all issue though, so it is a good idea to get a professional opinion on whether or not your circumstances satisfy the requirements.
Avoiding conflicts of interest
When applying to live in a Medicaid-certified nursing home, the staff may recommend their own professional to assist you with finalizing the necessary Medicaid processes. This individual will likely prioritize the nursing home’s interests over yours, whereas your chosen legal advocate has loyalty only to you and your interests. Receiving the benefits of this impartial knowledge and experience can also help you save money in the long run by avoiding situations that are not ideal for your medical needs.
Choosing your own Medicaid advocate is the best way to ensure that your application meets expectations and has the best chance at acceptance. Approaching the process by yourself opens up opportunities for mistakes that can cost you both time and money.
