Don’t Call an Elder Law Attorney for Your Health Insurance: Understanding MassHealth Long-Term Care vs. MassHealth Standard
February 2024
So, you’re in Massachusetts, scratching your head over MassHealth, the state’s Medicaid program. You’ve got options, my friend, but let’s not get our wires crossed. We’ve got two main characters in this drama: MassHealth Long-Term Care and MassHealth Standard. Think of them as siblings—related but with totally different personalities.
MassHealth Long-Term Care:
This one’s for the folks who need a little extra TLC; they’re chilling in a skilled nursing facility. It’s like the VIP section of MassHealth—reserved for those who need help with activities like dressing, bathing, and managing medications for the long haul.
Eligibility Criteria:
Picture this: you’ve got to prove you’re in it for the long run, medically speaking. And financially? Well, let’s just say they’re not throwing money at just anyone. You’ve got to meet asset limits tighter than your jeans after Thanksgiving dinner. Going through that is a whole different blog article (actually many blog articles). This is a welfare program so it’s not for everyone. There are strict financial rules or you won’t qualify!
Benefits:
Your room, board, and medical needs are covered!
Application Process:
Buckle up, buttercup. This ain’t no joyride. You’ll need to gather more paperwork than a tax accountant in April. Lucky for you, there are savvy folks like me—elder law attorneys—who can navigate this bureaucratic maze with finesse.
MassHealth Standard:
Now, this one’s the more laid-back sibling. MassHealth Standard is like your run-of-the-mill health insurance, available to low-income folks who need coverage but aren’t in it for the long haul like their Long-Term Care siblings.
Eligibility Criteria:
It’s all about the income—because health insurance in Massachusetts is required but not everyone has health insurance through work, this can be used for students or self-employed individuals.
Benefits:
Think doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. It’s the basics, but hey, it gets the job done.
Application Process:
Unlike its high-maintenance sibling, MassHealth Standard keeps it chill. You can apply without jumping through too many hoops. Just make sure your paperwork is in order, and you should be good to go.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it—MassHealth Long-Term Care vs. MassHealth Standard, the odd couple of healthcare coverage in Massachusetts. One’s all about the long-term commitment, while the other is more of a casual fling. And while you might not want to call up your elder law attorney for health insurance advice, remember, we’re here to help when you’re knee-deep in paperwork and need a guiding hand for your mom’s nursing home application. Until then, choose wisely, and may your healthcare journey be smooth sailing.