What is the CARES assessment?
In Florida, Comprehensive Assessment and Review for Long-Term Care Services (CARES) is the federally-mandated screening system for nursing home applicants. It is required by law for any person seeking Medicaid reimbursement for nursing home care or Medicaid waivers for community-based long-term care services. Furthermore, any private-pay applicant who is suspected of having an intellectual ability or mental illness must also take the test.
The CARES process is initiated once a person applies for the Medicaid Institutional Care Program. A registered nurse or other qualified individual performs the assessment, and then a physician or registered nurse reviews the application and determines the best course of action for the patient. You can read more about the process at the CARES website: http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/cares.php.
The lawyers at Bach, Jacobs & Byrne, P.A. are skilled Medicaid planning and elder law attorneys. To discuss protecting your assets in anticipation of long-term care and Medicaid application, or to learn more about the eligibility requirements of Medicaid, please contact us at (941) 906-1231 to schedule a consultation.
