Care that is prescribed by a doctor and performed by licensed health care professionals is also referred to as skilled care. Wound care, IV antibiotics and physical therapy after a stroke are some common times when skilled care is required.
Care that is privately paid for and can be performed by unlicensed caregivers, including family members, is also referred to as custodial care. Bathing, dressing, and transferring from a bed to a chair are common tasks performed by custodial caregivers.
What Does This Mean In The Insurance World?
Medicare Supplements will not pay for custodial long-term care costs. They will simply cover the deductibles and co-pays under Medicare. On some occasions, they may cover a few extra costs. These plans are purchased from a private insurance company and help to fill in the gap left by Medicare. There are 10 plans available, known as A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N that each offer different sets of benefits.
Long Term Care Insurance will not cover any Medicare deductibles, but will cover the cost of long term custodial care in a nursing home, assisted living or adult day care, as well as at home.
Medicare HMOs will require the use of certain doctors and hospitals and are also for short, acute care and short, rehabilitative stays in skilled nursing facilities. These plans will not pay for long term care.
Private Insurance through an employer is much like the Medicare HMO. It is not designed to cover long term care and will usually only cover short-term care.
Disability Insurance is designed to cover household expenses as it is referred to as an income replacement. It will help offset the costs of groceries, rent and utilities while a person is unable to earn income. This insurance is not designed to cover added expenses from the need for long term care.
