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What role does the federal government play in assisting Americans in need of long-term care? The answers, which lie primarily within two programs — Medicare and Medicaid — may surprise you. Here is a breakdown of the services they do and don’t offer.
Does Medicare cover the costs of long-term care?
No. This is a common misconception. As a reminder, Medicare is strictly a health insurance program that covers costs related to illnesses and injuries (and, to some extent, their prevention). As such, it will help pay for up to 100 days of rehabilitation or skilled nursing care after a major health issue, based on a doctor’s recommendation. But longer stays, such as a permanent move into a nursing home, are not covered.
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What about Medicare Advantage?
Some of these managed care plans offer nonmedical services at home, such as meals and installation of grab bars, says Howard Gleckman, senior fellow at the Urban Institute. And a small number of those managed care options, called special needs plans, offer some support services at home.
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