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ALBANY----Up to 5,000 senior citizens statewide could start moving out of nursing homes and back into the community over the next three years under a new state program expected to begin this spring.
Not only would the state realize a large savings in Medicaid costs, but the seniors could be psychologically benefited by being able to remain in their own homes or community.
The state Department of Health has applied for a waiver that would allow nursing home residents on Medicaid to receive home care or in adult day care or assisted living facilities.
In October, 2004 Gov. George Pataki signed legislation authorizing the DOH to apply for a Medicaid waiver for enhanced nursing home transition and diversion activities. The waiver reflects the Governor’s pledge to provide New Yorkers with disabilities a wide array of supportive care and services in the least restrictive, most appropriate setting.
DOH has applied to the federal government for a Medicaid waiver to provide community based services for persons who would otherwise be cared for in a nursing facility and who can be served at less cost in a community setting.
DOH will be working with representatives from independent living centers, disability and senior groups, local government, providers and others to design the new program.
An AARP survey in New York found 85% of seniors wanted to receive care at home for as long as possible.
Under the new program which is expected to begin as soon as June with approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, seniors would be eligible to receive the same Medicaid services at home that are available in nursing homes. According to a DOH spokesman, the state would pay for improvements to make the transitions possible such as installing ramps.
It is anticipated significant Medicaid savings would result as according to DOH estimates, assisting living care costs are half as much as nursing home care. One recent study indicated that up to 14% of nursing home residents statewide could be cared for in less expensive was such as adult day care or assisting living.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in 2003, New York State spent $16.7 billion on long-term care. Of that, over $7 billion was for nursing home care. The total spending for Medicaid in 2003 was $40.6 billion. 2-26-06
© 2005 North
Country Gazette
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