Recent findings show an information gap among Medicaid recipients regarding the need to re-enroll for benefits after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ends. Medicaid recipients are inconsistently informed about the end of the PHE and its effect on their health insurance benefits in terms of the amount of information they have and where they receive their information.  The PHE has been extended several times. The latest extension expires on January 11, 2023, with a 60-day notice before the end of the PHE. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act Congress enacted the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) in March 2020. The FFCRA prohibits states from disenrolling Medicaid recipients until the PHE ends. In addition to the ban on disenrollment, the FFCRA stopped the redetermination of eligibility. This kept more than 20 million people covered by health insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic.When the PHE ends, the FFCRA provisions that keep low-income people insured will end, leaving many people without benefits after the redetermination of eligibility resumes.Have You Heard About the Public Health Emergency Ending? Statistically, most people covered by Medicaid do not know that the PHE is coming to an end. The end of the PHE means that Medicaid health insurance benefits will also end. Studies show the following rates of information among Medicaid participants: 62% of Medicaid recipients did not know about the end of the PHE and the need for redetermination.16.2% of Medicaid enrollees stated that they heard something about the PHE ending but did not have any further information.15.7% of beneficiaries only knew very little about the end of the PHE and the redetermination of Medicaid benefits.Only 5% of Medicaid recipients reported that they were well-informed about the end of the PHE and the need for the redetermination of benefits.Information Medicaid Participants Have: Statistics Medicaid participants are getting information about the end of the PHE and health insurance benefits from the following variety of sources:34.3% from traditional or social media24.5% from their health insurance company30.6% from a state agency17.8% from their doctor or another health care provider6.5% from some other source than those listed aboveThere is a significant information gap among Medicaid participants. The inconsistency of information may lead some Medicaid enrollees to suffer negative consequences, including unexpectedly losing their health insurance coverage.There is no one person or agency that everyone agrees should inform Medicaid participants about when redetermination resumes. Currently, Medicaid enrollees are responsible for staying updated about the end of the Public Health Emergency. To stay updated on the end of the PHE and any changes to Medicaid benefits, keep an eye on your states Medicaid website, check your mail or email for important correspondence, and visit the Medicaid.gov website for new information.

Health insurance is a serious matter, especially with today's rising healthcare costs. What is Medicare?Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD).Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)Helps to pay for inpatient hospital care, psychiatric hospital care, medically necessary short-term skilled nursing facility care following a hospital stay, home health care and hospice care. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A because they or a spouse already paid for it through their payroll taxes while working.Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)Helps to pay for doctor's services, outpatient hospital services and various medical services and supplies. This is a voluntary program and a monthly premium must be paid. Assistance to pay for this premium may be available for individuals with low income. Visit www.Medicare.gov or contact your nearest Social Security Administration office for specific information about benefits.Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans)A type of Medicare health plan offered by a private insurance company that contracts with Medicare to provide you with all your Part A and Part B benefits (and possibly some additional benefits). A Medicare Advantage Plan essentially manages the healthcare of the plan's members. The government pays these companies money each month for each member. The company then helps to pay for medical care by doctors and hospitals that the member needs.Medicare Advantage Plans include: Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) Preferred Provider Organization Plans (PPO) Private Fee-for-Service Plans (PFFS) Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans [MSA) Medicare Specialty PlansIf you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, most Medicare services are covered through the plan and are not paid for under Original Medicare. Must Medicare Advantage Plans offer prescription drug coverage. In addition to a monthly premium, you may be responsible for out-of-pocket costs including an annual deductible, co-pays and co-insurance for office visits, hospital stays and outpatient services like physical therapy. Depending on the type of Medicare Advantage plan you choose, you may need a referral from your primary care physician to see a specialist or get lab work.  Doctors and specialists outside your plan's provider network may be partially covered but you will pay more to use them instead of an in-network provider.  Medicare Advantage Plans in Allegheny County: Aetna (855) 335-1407 Allwell PA Health and Wellness (866) 224-1076 Highmark (800) 576-6343 Humana Insurance Company (800) 833-2312 UnitedHealthcare Insurance (800) 281-7522 UPMC for Life (877) 381-3765Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)Part D adds prescription drug coverage to Original Medicare, some Medicare Cost Plans, some Medicare Private-Fee-far- Service Plans, and Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans.  These plans are offered by insurance companies and other private companies approved by Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans may also offer prescription drug coverage that follows the same rules as Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.Are you new to Medicare?  Do you have questions regarding your existing Medicare coverage?  Get one-on-one help.  I have answers!    Felice Johnson, Retirement Specialist at 412-726-6450.

Retirement is something everyone dreams of. However, as you near the age of retirement there are a few things you should do to prepare. Here are some ways to ensure you have the best retirement possible! SET GOALSCreating goals can help you get a better vision of your future during retirement. Try to set at least 3-5 realistic goals. What kind of lifestyle you want and who you want to be around? Do you want to spend more time with family and friends? Get involved in the community? Take some time to travel?  Then get more specific. For instance, if you want to travel, think about where you want to go and how long you want to stay there. Do you want to travel internationally? Go somewhere warm?EVALUATE YOUR FINANCESAn essential part of having a successful retirement is having enough money saved up for when you arent working. At the start of your career, you probably enrolled in your companys 401(k) program or opened a similar account to prepare for retirement. While these will probably have you covered, its smart to evaluate your current financial situation to ensure you have enough money saved.Once you know what your income will be during retirement, create a budget to live off of. If you have debt, make a plan to pay it off before you retire. Remember, itll be much harder to tackle debt payments without your normal income from work; its best to be proactive!FOCUS ON YOUR HEALTHBeing healthy will make retirement much more enjoyable and will allow you the freedom to do whatever you want! Be proactive and schedule preventative checkups with your doctor so you can make a plan to improve your health or get treatment for any serious conditions. You should also continue to stay active and exercise regularly to maintain your muscle and bone strength. Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and focus on your mental health so youre ready for this lifestyle change!CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONSThink about your retirement goals and where you envision yourself later in life. Moving into an independent living community might be the right choice for you!  In these communities, you can meet new people, participate in social events, and have access to luxurious amenities (like room service, fitness centers, gourmet chefs, and more!).  Editors Note:  This article has been submitted South Hills Square Retirement Resort.  Contact them today to discover the benefits of all-inclusive retirement living at 412-253-6100. 

What Benefits Do Home Care Services Offer for Respite Care? Respite care can often provide a much-needed break for those caring for elderly family members, allowing them to take a step away from their responsibilities for a period of time. However, finding the right home care services to provide care for a loved one when a caregiver needs to take time for themselves isnt always easy. Fortunately, there are many benefits of home care services that can provide your loved one with quality respite care. In this blog post, well discuss some of these benefits and how they can bring peace of mind for both your loved one and the caregiver. Understanding the Need for RespiteCare Challenges Faced by Caregivers: Caregivers often face physical, emotional, and mental challenges while providing care to their loved ones. The demands of caregiving can be overwhelming and can lead to burnout if not addressed. Impact of Caregiving on Physical and Mental Health: Caregiving can take a toll on caregivers' physical and mental health, leading to increased stress, fatigue, and potential health issues. Respite care provides a much-needed break to recharge and rejuvenate. Need for Breaks and Self-Care: Caregivers must prioritize their own well-being and take breaks to rest, engage in self-care activities, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Respite care offers the opportunity for caregivers to tend to their own needs. Benefits of Home Care Services for Respite Care Professional and Trained Caregivers: Home care services provide caregivers who are trained and experienced in providing personalized care and support to individuals with various needs, including medical conditions and disabilities. Home care professionals have the expertise to understand and address the specific health conditions and needs of the care recipient, ensuring that they receive appropriate care and assistance. Personalized Care Plans: Home care services develop personalized care plans that consider the unique needs, preferences, and routines of the care recipient, ensuring that they receive individualized care and support. Home care providers can adapt care plans as the needs of the care recipient evolve, ensuring that the care provided remains relevant and effective. Assistance with Daily Activities: Home care professionals offer assistance with personal care tasks, medication management, and mobility support, enabling the care recipient to maintain their independence and well-being. Home care services can assist with household chores and meal preparation, lightening the load for caregivers and ensuring that the care recipient's living environment remains clean and safe. Companionship and Social Engagement: Home care professionals provide companionship and engage the care recipient in social activities, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Respite care offers the care recipient the opportunity to interact with a compassionate caregiver, fostering social connections and enhancing their overall well-being. Peace of Mind for Caregivers: Home care services provide caregivers with peace of mind, knowing that their loved one is receiving professional care from trained and compassionate caregivers. Respite care allows caregivers to take much-needed breaks, engage in self-care activities, and attend to their own physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Caregiver helping senior woman with shopping. How to Access Home Care Services for Respite Care Research and Identify Reputable Home Care Agencies Conduct research to identify reputable home care agencies that specialize in respite care. Read reviews and seek recommendations from healthcare professionals or other caregivers. Consultation and Assessment of Care NeedsSchedule a consultation with the chosen home care agency to assess the care recipient's needs and discuss the desired respite care schedule. Planning and Scheduling Respite Care Services Work with the home care agency to plan and schedule respite care services that meet the needs of both the caregiver and the care recipient. Establish clear communication channels and provide necessary information to ensure a smooth transition of care. Funding and Payment Options for Respite Care Insurance Coverage and Government Programs Explore insurance coverage options or government programs that may provide financial assistance for respite care services. Consult with a healthcare professional or contact relevant agencies to understand eligibility and requirements. Private Payment Options and Financial Assistance If insurance coverage or government programs are not available, consider private payment options or explore financial assistance programs offered by non-profit organizations or local community resources.Importance of Open Communication and Feedback Maintain open and transparent communication with the home care agency and caregivers to ensure that the care recipient's needs and preferences are effectively communicated and addressed. Provide regular updates and feedback to the home care agency regarding the care services received. This helps maintain a collaborative approach and ensures continuous improvement in the quality of care. Conclusion Home care services offer professional and trained caregivers, personalized care plans, assistance with daily activities, companionship, and peace of mind for caregivers. Caregivers play a vital role in the well-being of their loved ones, and respite care allows them to recharge, take care of themselves, and continue providing quality care. Remember, respite care is essential for caregivers to maintain their own physical and mental well-being. Seeking home care services for respite care can provide the necessary support and relief, ensuring that both caregivers and care recipients receive the care they deserve.