Next, you need to review the individual's financial resources to determine how the nursing home will be paid. It is important that prior to signing an admission agreement with a nursing home, you carefully review the financial conditions specified and the services provided.

Next, you need to review the individual's financial resources to determine how the nursing home will be paid. It is important that prior to signing an admission agreement with a nursing home, you carefully review the financial conditions specified and the services provided.

There are three general types of payment:

Medicare - Medicare may pay for a limited period of time for skilled nursing and rehabilitation care, provided that certain conditions have been met. The final determination of Medicare coverage is not made until the person is admitted to the facility.

Medicaid - In New York State, Medicaid will pay for nursing home care if the individual qualifies for Medicaid according to income and resource standards. Information about such eligibility may be obtained either from the hospital social worker or, if the individual is currently in the community, from any of the organizations listed in the Community Resources section at the back of this guide.

Private Pay - Individuals who have income and resources that exceed Medicaid limits must pay for nursing home care themselves. It is important to note, however, that private pay rates vary from nursing home to nursing home, as do the different services covered by these rates. Nursing homes may also request a pre-payment deposit, which according to New York State law cannot exceed the rate for three months of care.

When an individual has used up most of his or her monies - a situation often referred to as "spending down" - he or she may apply for Medicaid coverage. The nursing home can provide assistance with this process. 

Determining Individual Needs

Personal likes and dislikes are critical in determining the nursing home most appropriate for each individual. Take time to discuss the services, activities, and atmosphere that the individual would prefer. For instance, some homes may be more flexible in meeting certain food preferences, others in providing social activities.

Continue on to "Visiting the Nursing Home" >

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