Medicaid Proposals

Even though a vote over the Senate's bill to repeal Obamacare (Affordable Care Act) has been delayed, it is important to know whether or not it affects elders who rely on Medicaid for nursing home care. At least for the moment, the legislation to cap Medicaid will not proceed. Nor will the full repeal of the Affordable Care Act.  There were several proposals that could have had an impact. In March, the House legislation included limits to home equity as a countable resource and repeal of three-month retroactive coverage.  By lowering the limits on home equity, recipients could have been forced to chose between home ownership and Medicaid  assistance. Ultimately, the first was removed from the Senate bill and the second was modified to not apply to persons with disabilities and those over 65. NAELA is also concerned about the misuse of 1115 waivers to limit Medicaid eligibility. Maine has already proposed an 1115 waiver to put limits on annuities and end retroactive coverage. An elder law attorney can help you learn if you or a loved one qualifies for Medicaid and how to do Medicaid planning.