I'm new here and very honestly have little understanding about where I go from here. I was capable to care for my dad until recently. Even trained and was doing well with peritoneal dialysis at home. However, he's had serious cognitive health issues which has caused him to have to be placed in a rehabilitation inpatient facility & is at his Medicare limit. He also pays for United Healthcare insurance. Social worker is mentioning medicaid. I just need my dad help whether it's coming home or long term facility and I'm starting to feel like every place i expect answers or guidance im running into brick walls.
Your dad uses all of his income and assets to pay for long term care in a skilled nursing facility, and when his funds are exhausted, or if he is unable to afford it now, then you help him to apply for Medicaid, which will pay for long term care.
I didn't know any of this, either. A county health department social worker met with me and my husband when he was in the nursing home. His status as a vulnerable adult is what triggered her visit. She let me know the options for him, and eventually, when he was kicked out of the nursing home for unmanageable behavior, I was informed that I could be paid as his full time caregiver at home.
That was the route we ended up taking, as I couldn't find a facility that would take him with his difficult behavior.
A hospital social worker and county health dept. social workers will help to educate you on your options, and may even help fill out the paperwork for Medicaid application.
Fingers crossed we will be able to get Pops the proper care he needs. Keep you posted
The social worker can't fill out the form unless your Dad or you can provide the information needed, which is usually recent bank statements, and any other asset information. I've filled out an app and it's not difficult -- you just need to have the information requested.
You can get him into a good, local facility on private pay and then when he is very close to running out of money, you fill out the app. The facility must be one that has Medicaid beds, and they need to have open ones.
How old is your Dad? If he's had serious cognitive issues then is he capable of making the ongoing care decision or even giving anyone the info for the Medicaid app? Are you his PoA? He won't be able to help with this decision -- it's your call now. Caregiving happens on the caregiver's terms or else burnout is imminent.
While he's there,ask the social worker to start the application. My understanding a resident can't be "put out" while the application has been submitted.
At the same time, try to set him up with a Care Manager. Social Worker can help with that as well, if needed.
Good luck!