I'm having to make a lot of decisions that are coming quickly and one is moving my mom to a LTAC from MICU. I have never had any experience with LTAC and I don't know anybody that has. I'm struggling with every question asked hoping I do the right best thing for my momma. Anything will help, thanks y'all
Medicare pays 100% for the first 20 days. 21st to 100th day they pay 50%. After the 20th day Mom will be responsible for the 50% Medicare doesn't pay. If she has a good suppliment, it may pay the balance or part of it. Any balance left will need to be paid by Mom. The 100 days is not guaranteed. Mom could be discharged at anytime because she has reached her Plateau or not making progress. Medicare determines discharged based on what the facility tell them about a patients progress.
When Mom is discharged, this is when decisions will need to be made. Can Mom come home with minimal care or will she need 24/7 care? Is her home set up for her needs? If she needs 24/7 care will family members be able to provide it or will she need to hire it?
Money, if Mom is in rehab the full 100 days allowed and insurance not paying the 50% balance, can Mom afford the approx 12k that it will cost. If not then Medicaid gets involved. (Not sure how this works short term) If its found that she needs 24/7 care and family agrees that Longterm care is required and Mom has no money, then Medicaid longterm will need to be applied for.
This is overwhelming. I suggest you sit down with the Social Worker and have her explain how this will all work out for Mom.