The pandemic has had an impact on nearly every aspect of our lives this year. Few have been more affected by COVID-19 than the residents of nursing homes. Many of my clients are residents of nursing homes in the area. These facilities have taken extraordinary measures to lessen the risk of exposure to their residents and staff.
Changes have also been implemented at my office in order to keep the staff and clients safe. Face coverings are required. Surfaces are thoroughly disinfected after each appointment. In order to limit the number of individuals in the office at any one time, only those who have an appointment will be permitted to enter the building. Upon entry, a temperature check is completed. To limit exposure among my staff, most of them have been working remotely since the pandemic began. A majority of consultations are conducted remotely using videoconferencing tools such as Google Meet, Zoom, FaceTime, or by phone. Since many of my clients do not feel safe to leave their homes because they have an elevated risk of complications as a result of the virus, we often travel to their homes to execute signings.
The Medicaid team at my office focuses on asset protection for clients who are in, or headed to, nursing homes. When appropriate, my team may also discuss ways that Medicaid may cover the cost of at-home care through the Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver program. Interest in the A&D Waiver program has grown considerably since the beginning of the pandemic, as clients are hesitant to place their loved ones into nursing homes until it is absolutely necessary. The program is designed to allow individuals, who would otherwise be admitted to a nursing home, to receive care while remaining in the safety of their own home.
Medicaid planning is complicated during normal times; during a pandemic, it can be overwhelming. My team has many years of experience in navigating the ever-changing Medicaid landscape. If you or a loved one may need assistance at home, or in a nursing home, consider calling my office to schedule a free consultation to discuss options. To learn more about asset protection for “Nursing Home Medicaid” or the A&D Waiver program, call or text my office at 812–423-1500.