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Does Medicaid Cover Home Health Care?
Date Updated: December 16, 2024
Written by:
Ashlee Shefer is a freelance copywriter, content writer, and digital marketer who specializes in senior care, mental health, health care, and other wellness-related topics. She has one year of experience writing both short- and long-form content related to senior resources, assisted living, nursing homes, and home care, including blog posts, research-based articles, resource guides, product reviews, facility blurbs, finances, and care costs.
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Kristi Bickmann, a licensed Long-Term Care Specialist, represents top-rated "Traditional" & "Hybrid" LTC companies. Serving associations such as the American Nurses Association, she's a licensed insurance agent in 27 states. Specializing in insurance products for seniors, Kristi helps hundreds of families every year protect assets, retirement, and loved ones. She understands aging concerns firsthand, having assisted her own parents. Kristi ensures accuracy on topics about senior long-term care and its consequences.
Medicaid does cover home health care for individuals meeting specific financial and level-of-care eligibility requirements. Although Medicaid policies vary by state, they often pay for home health care services deemed medically necessary for individuals wishing to age in place. Some states also offer Home & Community Based Services waivers for further financial support.
Eligibility Requirements for Medicaid-Covered Home Health Care
When applying for Medicaid, you must meet state-specific eligibility requirements. These include financial criteria and a functional need for home health care services to maintain quality of life. Medicaid considers your income and assets when determining eligibility. However, financial limits vary depending on the state and Medicaid program you're applying for. For example, many states offer a regular Medicaid plan and waiver programs.
Additionally, you must present a medical need for home health care. To verify functional needs, visit your doctor for an assessment and a service referral. HCBS waivers also vary by state but generally require a level of care consistent with services provided in nursing homes as verified by a physician.
What Home Health Care Services Does Medicaid Cover?
Medicaid covers a variety of home health care services to promote aging in place. Exact coverage varies depending on the state and plan. Additionally, some providers don't accept Medicaid benefits, and others limit the number of individuals who can use these benefits simultaneously. State Medicaid offices maintain lists of participating providers for easy navigation. Commonly covered services include:
- Skilled nursing care by a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse
- Home health aide services, including monitoring vital signs
- Assistance with personal care activities, including bathing, dressing and grooming
- Durable medical equipment, such as walkers and wheelchairs
- Home modifications, such as ramps, grab bars and non slip flooring
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Personal emergency response services, such as medical alerts
- Medical social services
- Physical, speech and occupational therapy