The state of Tennessee has pushed through cuts in Medicaid funding that has reduced the funding available for those that depend on the governmental insurance for healthcare. Medicaid has always been the insurance that the poor has turned to, but with the number of cuts the state has dealt will change the way people can access needed services.
In response to certain changes a new, voluntary program has been proposed that will help the elderly and those that care for them find ways to stay at home or as it is known, age in place. The new program is only open to people who are disabled, older than 65 and need the type of help that is offered by a nursing home.
TennCare, the name of the state’s Medicaid program, has proposed an expansion to the number of people that can enroll in the voluntary program that provides funds to caregivers and the elderly/disabled to add things to their homes that can help them age in place. Ramps, home visits, and even community based care options such as adult day health care.
In order to put the program to work, TennCare must gain approval from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. A spokesperson has said that they have every expectation that the program will gain the federal approval.
The program’s name is Choices and has received an enthusiastic reception from families. People that will be using the service have expressed that any option that reduces the chance of needing to move into a nursing home long term is beneficial. The depression and isolation that can occur from living alone can be circumvented and community socialization programs may see an increased attendance.
Currently the costs associated with nursing homes is about $55,000 a year per person. Tennessee expects to save $2.28 million this year and another $4.05 million next year if the limit for enrollment is increased. At home care cost the state’s Medicaid program about $19,000 per year per person.
Until 2010 Tennessee spent 98% of long term care funding afforded the state on facility based care. With the change and new program, more families will be able to afford to keep their elderly or disabled loved ones home. There are now 31% of eligible people taking advantage of home and community based services compared to before 2010 when there were only 17% utilizing the home based service vouchers.
