ADMISSION TO A NURSING HOME

Families applying to a nursing facility (called a "Facility") for the benefit of a loved one are frequently unaware of what their rights are. Lets review those rights.

The Facility must:

1. Not ask the patient to waive rights to Medicaid or Medicare;

2. Not obtain an oral or written assurance that the applicant is not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare;

3. Not require a third party guarantee as a condition of admission or continued stay. This is different from a person agreeing to pay the facility from the resident's own funds.

4. Not solicit a contribution or other amount as a condition of admission, expedited admission (avoiding a waiting list) or continuing to be able to stay at the Facility.

5. Not charge a resident for services and products that are part of the Medicaid program. Items not covered must be made known to the patient and the cost thereof set forth. The Facility may not condition admission based on whether such services or products are needed or requested.