Costs for health care services can be high and long-term care is no exception. There are several ways a person can pay for this care. Most often payment is through a combination of sources. These may include the individual's own financial resources, retirement, pensions or veteran's benefits, private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or other government programs. Most of the community services that allow a person to remain at home are available on an income based sliding fee schedule. The actual cost will depend on the individual's specific needs and the number of services required to meet those needs. If a person's needs change, there may be a corresponding need for change in residence and services.
Qualifications, regulations and coverage for the various payment sources are extremely complex, and should be examined on an individual basis. Contrary to popular belief, Medicare and most private insurance companies' policies do not pay for extended custodial nursing home care, but can serve to help defray the cost of other medical needs.
Further information can be obtained from the sources listed at the end of this chapter. Also, you can receive information and explanations of the various types of coverage by contacting your SHIBA representative.
A Word About SHIBA Helpline
SHIBA stands for Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors, a group of volunteers who have been helping Washington's senior citizens since 1980. SHIBA is a program sponsored by the state Office of the Insurance Commissioner to teach concerned citizens about Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance, consumer protection and general health insurance issues. These volunteers reach out to Washington citizens through free consultations.
For a consultation on insurance coverage, contact the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors Helpline (SHIBA), at 1-800-397-4422 (toll free).
Other Helpful Numbers
2-1-1 Information
877-246-1915 or 2-1-1
Social Security Administration
402 Yauger way SW, Olympia WA
360-753-9471
1-800-772-1213 (toll free)
Alzheimer's Association Helpline
1-800-848-7097 (toll free)
American Association of Retired Persons (MRP)
1-800-424-3410 (toll free)
WA Medicare
1-866-0684
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