Expanding Medicaid During a Pandemic

By Holland McBurns, Managing Partner, Evergreen Elder Law

I wouldn’t have thought that Oklahoma would be the first state to vote on expanding Medicaid since the COVID-19 pandemic began. I congratulate the Oklahomans!

There are currently 38 states that had previously expanded Medicaid, with my home state of Washington having adopted and implemented the expansion in 2014.

What is Medicaid?

As many of you already know, my passion has always been to give back to my community. Since 2000 when I opened Evergreen Elder Law in Spokane, WA, one area that we have specialized in is Medicaid, also known as, Apple Health coverage. Medicaid provides coverage to eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities. It provides preventive care and numerous other health care services like treatment for diabetes and cancer screening. Medicaid costs are determined by income and Washington eligibility rules. But it can be a difficult road to travel. The last thing you want to do is go broke paying for long-term care.

Medicaid Assistance in Spokane, Tri-Cities and Coeur d’Alene

This is where we come in. Evergreen Elder Law’s staff of attorneys dedicate themselves to staying up-to-date on current Medicaid issues. Did you know it can cost over $100,000 a year for assisted living? We have experience helping seniors qualify for Medicaid while preserving their assets. We employ strategies specific to you or a loved one’s situation – we can help you qualify so you don’t go through all your assets.

Medicaid will pay for in-home care, adult family home, assisted living, and skilled nursing assistance. If you are over 65 years old and qualify for Medicare, Medicaid might even be able to help you with some of the costs. Evergreen Elder Law can help you access this benefit. Learn more about your options, you never know when you might need them.

Interested in sharing your experiences with Medicaid and your clients? Would love to hear from you.