Most people have heard of Medicaid. Most people know that Medicaid is a massive program funded by the federal government. However, these three little known facts about Medicaid are important to help you understand how Medicaid might help you.
#1 – Medicaid Pays for a Limited Number of Doctor Visits
Becoming eligible for Medicaid benefits does not mean you can go to the doctor any time you want. Well, you can go but Medicaid typically pays for only 14 doctor appointments per year.
However, if you need to see the doctor more than 14 times a year, check with your local public clinics and federal health clinics. Otherwise, additional office visits will be self-pay.
Eye care and dental care appointments are separate from general office visits. Medicaid pays for one exe exam every three years. Most dental services are covered for Medicaid recipients.
#2 – Medicaid Might Pay for Transportation to Doctor Appointments
In general, Medicaid benefits include ambulance transportation when medically necessary. However, many people don’t know that Medicaid’s Non-Emergency Transportation Program may also cover transportation to and from scheduled appointments. There are some limitations, though:
- Visits must be medically necessary;
- The Medicaid recipient must be unable to find or pay for other forms of transportation; and
- The transportation must be approved by Medicaid five (5) days before it is needed.
If you may need this program, check out the FAQs or call 1-800-362-1504.
#3 – Medicaid Is the Nation’s Largest Primary Payer for Long-Term Care
As the baby boomer generation hits retirement age, more people will need some form of long-term care. The cost of that care continues to increase, and many people are just not prepared for it.
In this current climate, Medicaid has become the source of long-term care funds for many people. However, although 72.2 million people qualified for Medicaid in 2016 (including children and caregivers), the application process is long and hard. Many people are denied benefits.
Not Everyone Qualifies for Medicaid.
At Miller Estate and Elder Law, we help clients with long-term care planning and the Medicaid application process. For a free consultation, contact us at 256-251-2137 or use our convenient Contact Form. Download a copy of our free guide, What You Need to Know About Medicaid Planning in Alabama.
We have offices in Anniston and Birmingham and we assist clients in the Leeds, Gadsden, Hoover, Talladega, Vestavia Hills, and surrounding areas.
