|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Defining Long Term Care:
Finding a facility can be a daunting task for residents and their families. Ombudsman Services is not a placement agency but we do offer assistance to individuals and their family and friends who are trying to navigate the long term care system.
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions.
What is a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)?
A Skilled Nursing Facility provides residents with access to 24 hour skilled nursing care, related services, or rehabilitative services for the injured, disabled, or sick individuals. Residents in SNFs are under the direction of their personal care physician or the facilities medical director. Each resident must have an individualized plan of care developed by the physician, resident and/or their responsible party, and facility staff.
How do I pay for Long Term Care?
The cost of paying for Skilled Nursing care can be more than $5,500 per month. Medi-Cal is a program that provides for the long term “custodial” care of low-income citizens and legal residents of all ages. Medi-Cal will only pay for care that is deemed medically-necessary and individuals must pass a “means” test.
Payment for care provided by Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly are not subsidized by any federal or state programs. The cost of residential care generally is $3,000 or more per month. There are some facilities within our county that do accept residents who are beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI/SSP).
What is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE)?
A Residential Care Facility for the Elderly provides non-medical care and supervision for persons aged 60 and older who may need assistance with Activities of Daily Living. These activities include help with bathing, grooming, toileting, eating, ambulating and assistance with medications. RCFEs range in size from small facilities with six residents to large assisted living facilities with hundreds of residents. Residents of RCFEs should not require on-going medical care.