By Gay Rowan, CSA, CLTC
CA State License #0B91594

Question: What exactly is long term care?

Answer: Custodial care vs. skilled care.

Question: Doesn't Medicare pay for my long term care?

Answer: Medicare does cover a very small portion of long term care and only if it is skilled care. That means services provided by a doctor, a nurse or a licensed therapist. You must also have been in the hospital for three days prior to needing long term care and continue to show progress. Medicare will pay for the first 20 days at 100% and the remaining 80 days at 100% after you have paid a daily deductible of $101.50. In addition, Medicare will not pay for custodial care. And 95% of all long term care is custodial only.

Question: Aren't I entitled to Medicaid for coverage?

Answer: Medicaid is not an entitlement program. It was designed for the poor; it's basically welfare. It has the world's largest deductible; your net worth. In order to be eligible for Medicaid you must first spend down all your assets. In addition, the choices with Medicaid are very limited. You go where there is a Medicaid bed available, it does not pay for a private room and it does not pay for home care.

• The cost of Long Term Care is prohibitive - approximately $50,000 a year.
• Medicare does NOT pay for Long Term Care unless it is skilled care.
• 95% of Long Term Care is custodial only.
• Medicaid is NOT an entitlement program - it is basically welfare. And it does not pay for a private room or home care.
• 85% of all Long Term Care is being provided in the community NOT a nursing home.
• Long Term Care is NOT just a senior issue - 40% of people needing Long Term Care are working age adults.
• If you haven't included Long Term Care insurance as part of your financial plan, it is not complete.

LGR Insurance Group is a leading specialist in Long Term Care planning. From employer groups to individuals, LGR Insurance Group is able to design the best and most affordable program to offset the catastrophic loss associated with long term care. For a free, personalized consultation call LGR Insurance Group toll free at 888-995-8376 or visit their web site at: www.longtermcareforu.com for more information.