When Medicare was expanded in 2003, the expansion that established prescription drug coverage was called a “promise, a solemn promise, to America’s seniors.” Part D Medicare officially took effect in 2006, but still some seniors were afraid of falling into the infamous “doughnut-hole” coverage gap. Initial Benefits of Part D…
Being a caregiver to an older adult can be very rewarding for both the caregiver and the person receiving the care. However, being a caregiver also is hard work. It’s hard mentally, emotionally, physically and sometimes financially, as well. However, certain programs and actions can sometimes make caring for an…
The New York Medicaid system is the primary means of providing long-term care to many seniors in the state. However, the system’s popularity led to financial strains, and public officials have worked for years to address rising costs and budget challenges. The most popular large-scale change to the program pushed…
It is a common problem for New York residents: how to protect your ailing parents’ assets. For many families, the largest asset is the family home. Many seniors spent their entire lives pouring money into their home, with property rates increasing over the years, the home is a significant asset…
Residents throughout New York continue to experience “sticker shock” when exploring their long-term care options. Whether you are planning for possible needs in the future or working quickly to secure support for an ailing loved one, there is a good chance you may be surprised by the overall costs of…
Uncertainty reigned over the last few months regarding the budget situation for the New York Medicaid system. Fortunately, an agreement has been reached which should provide more long-term stability and the ease the minds of both policymakers and NY residents alike. The underlying problem was claims by the federal government…
As the first wave of healthcare insurance enrollment ends as part of the Affordable Care Act, observers are quick to comment on the changes enacted by the law. In addition to millions who took advantage of insurance sold in private marketplace exchanges, there has also been a significant increase in…
The New York Medicaid program is a critical lifeline for millions of residents. Unfortunately, many remain confused by some of the complex details. It is common to have only a fragmented understanding of how Medicaid works from random discussions with friends and neighbors or by hearing snippets of news clips…
The face of New York nursing home care has been changing in recent years. The traditional model of individual counties throughout the state owning and operating facilities to provide care to ailing seniors is being phased out in may places. Instead, the counties are selling the homes to private companies…
We are in the midst of significant changes to the New York Medicaid system. The critical state-federal program serves as a lifeline for many residents–including those in nursing homes. As part of President Obama’s healthcare overhaul, Medicaid is expanding, opening opportunities to more residents than ever before. New York has…