Fratello & Fox, P.C.

516.496.0730

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

             Medicaid is a health insurance program that was created in 1965 by way of the Social Security Act.  It is financed jointly by federal and state governments, and, in New York State, is administered by the New York State Department of Health in conjunction with county and city agencies.  The program was originally intended to aid the poor.  Today, Medicaid coverage is not technically limited to the poor and can be obtained with careful planning.

             Applications for Medicaid services are submitted to the local Department of Social Services (DSS) and in New York City, to the Human Resources Administration (HRA).  Medicaid has conditions of eligibility that are based on income and resource limits, medical need and United States residence.  The limits differ and are dependant upon which Medicaid program one is applying for. 

             Medicaid offers long term care for qualifying individuals in the form of institutionalized services, such as a nursing home, and home care services, which can include personal care aides, nursing, and physical therapy.  At present, Medicaid is the leading provider of nursing home care in the United States.

             Nursing home care costs and home care costs have skyrocketed in recent years.  Many individuals have taken a proactive step in planning for the possibility of a need for long term care services.  Advanced planning is crucial.  Before determining Medicaid eligibility or transferring assets in the context of Medicaid planning, one should seek professional assistance from a qualified elder law attorney. 

 

Dated: 12/2006

MEDICAID 101

The information in this website is intended for information only and does not represent legal advice.  Receipt of materials from this website does not constitute an attorney-client relationship between Fratello & Fox, P.C. and the receiver.  Professional counsel should be sought before utilizing any information contained in this website.