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Who Pays? Many individuals pay for care and services privately; others may have long-term care insurance that pays for nursing home care, assisted living/residential care, or in-home services, depending on the policy. In addition, some qualify for assistance from Medicare or Medicaid. Medicare: The federal Medicare program, which provides health insurance to people age 65 or older and some disabled people under 65, provides limited coverage of nursing home and home health care to Medicare enrollees who meet certain requirements. Medicare pays for the first 20 days, and in part for an additional 80 days, of care in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay of at least three days. Medicare also pays for home health care for individuals who are homebound and require part-time skilled nursing or therapy services. Medicaid: In Oregon, Medicaid may pay for in-home services, assisted living/residential care, or nursing home care for residents who meet certain eligibility requirements based on income and disability. Interested persons should ask their care providers if they take Medicaid, and check with their county’s Department of Human Services to see if they are eligible. |