Relocating a Loved One: Tips for a Successful Move
Are you are considering the possibility of relocating a loved one? There could be a number of reasons for this but one of the biggest reasons is because of safety concerns and you wanting the best for your loved one. Here are some things to keep in mind.
What insurance does your loved one have and will it be covered in another state?
Medicare is a federal program that offers health insurance which older folks are entitled to if they are 65+and receiving SSA related benefits. Basically this is a monthly pension they receive from the Social Security Administration. Every state accepts Medicare as a primary payor source however not all services are covered. See this scenario below for further details. If Medicare is primary, you still need a supplement insurance also known as a “medi gap” plan in order to cover those costs not covered by Medicare alone. Not every state offers the same plans, so it is important to do research.
Medicare Advantage Plans are also a form of insurance however again these plans are not accessible in every state. If your loved one is going to move to another state it is important that you call the plan directly to find out if they offer their current plan or something similar in the state you are relocating to.
Drug Plans while normally covered under Medicare Part D benefits it is equally important to ensure that you enroll your loved one into a plan that is accepted in the area they are moving to.
Physicians are a great resource for insight and info into which insurance plans that they accept and are in network with. It is important to choose a primary care provider in the region you are considering moving your loved one to, as they are the link to necessary referrals to maintain a continuity of care for your loved one.
Word of Mouth Not sure where to begin to find a physician? Ask for recommendations from friends and colleagues, everyone has an aging person in their lives. Referrals are essential in these cases.
Frequent Flyer Syndrome with illness there tends to be frequent hospitalizations. Another issue to keep in mind is whether or not there is a hospital near the area you are moving to. What if you decided to move somewhere rural, is there a hospital within a 20 mile radius in case of an emergency?
Medicaid is a state funded program and not all states have the same guidelines/criteria for eligibility so even if your loved one as Medicaid in one state that does not mean they qualify in another one. It is important that you check with the local Department of Social Services in the state you are interested in having them relocate to for further details and assistance.
There are so many other factors to consider in the event that you have to relocate a loved one, but it is possible but you should definitely look into some of the tips mentioned particularly for someone who is dealing with chronic illness and or an older adult.
If you’ve ever had to move a loved one because of illness or life changing events, the missguided notions team would love to hear from you. Send an email with a brief synopsis of why you had to relocate someone you loved and a few of the hurdles you may have experienced along the way here.