What does Title 19 NOT pay for?
What will happen when Medicare and/or personal funds are depleted and Medicaid (Title 19) assistance must be sought?
What will occur if the resident's level of care changes?
What are the "bed-hold" policies; how long will the facility hold a bed open if the person needs to be hospitalized?
What are the policies regarding overnight and vacation leaves?
What is the financial liability of the resident's children or other family members?
All charges not covered by daily rates should be listed. Do not sign an Admissions Agreement until all your questions have been answered. Call your local State Office of Bureau of Quality Assurance if some Admission Agreement requirements seem "odd" to you.
Making the Decision:
In making the decision, the first consideration should be the fulfillment of needs. Which facility best meets medical and environmental needs?
Which facility is the most homelike, appears the "happiest" and staff look or seem concerned and involved?
Never select a facility simply because it has an opening and is willing to accept the resident.
Never select a facility sight unseen, unless there is an emergency need.
Consider price, facility policies and services.
Admission Agreement:
The contract must be read carefully. Special attention should be paid to the general agreements; resident's responsibility, waivers of admission, injury, damage and loss of property; policies regarding transfer or release of resident and funds
An Admission Agreement is a contract which should state the obligation of the home to the prospective resident as well as the resident's or guardian's obligation to the home. The language of the Admissions Agreement varies from home to home. Read each home's agreement with care. Once you sign the Agreement it becomes a legally binding contract.
Who Licenses and Regulates Nursing homes?
What are the types of licensed facilities and the type of care provided?
Agencies or organizations that may be of additional assistance