MaineCare is a state-funded initiative that offers healthcare coverage to those who qualify in the state. It covers a variety of services, including long-term care, prescription medicines, and hospital stays. The issue of whether MaineCare covers assisted living comes up, though. The answer, which relies on a number of variables, is both yes and no.
Facilities for assisted living are not financially covered by MaineCare. It does, however, pay for a few services that might be offered in an assisted living facility. Personal care, home health assistance, and skilled nursing care are some of these services. If a person needs one or more of these services and is qualified for MaineCare, the cost might be reimbursed, but the person would have to live at home rather than in an assisted living facility.
How do you meet the requirements for assisted living in Maine? Although assisted living is not covered by MaineCare, there are alternative ways to subsidize the cost. One choice is the MaineCare waiver program, a Medicaid-funded initiative that offers qualified people community- and home-based services. Personal care, homemaker services, and respite care are all included under this program and can be offered in an assisted living facility. But not everybody qualifies for this program.
The MaineCare waiver program has qualifying conditions that must be met by applicants. These prerequisites include living in Maine, being at least 65 years old or disabled, and earning an amount that qualifies you for Medicaid. Additionally, the person must need assistance with daily tasks including eating, dressing, and taking a bath.
Private payment is yet another way to pay for assisted living in Maine. Private pay refers to paying for assisted living expenses out of pocket by the individual or their family. Assisted living expenses in Maine vary according to the facility and the services offered. Nevertheless, it is typically more affordable than nursing home care.
Finally, while MaineCare does not pay for assisted living facilities, it does cover some services that might be offered there. If a person satisfies the eligibility standards, they may qualify for the MaineCare waiver program to pay for assisted living in Maine. Another option is private payment. Finding the most appropriate assisted living facility for a person’s needs and budget requires research and comparison of various facilities.