Medicaid and Home Care

Delaware government: Medicaid care heads home, By Hiran Ratnayake, February 25, 2011, Wilmington News Journal: “Each morning, a home health aide goes to 43-year-old Lisa Hughes’ Newark apartment to help with her day-to-day life. Because of her health needs, Hughes is among close to 17,000 Delaware residents who would benefit from a new state program that could save millions in health care costs while keeping people out of nursing homes. From the time she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 18 years ago, Hughes’ autoimmune disease has slowly progressed. At first, it caused ‘flashbulb spots’ in her vision, but it has progressed to the point that Hughes needs a wheelchair. Aides from Bayada Nurses, a home health care company, help her get ready every morning and prepare to go to bed at night. A Bayada registered nurse — as well as occupational and physical therapists — also check on her twice a week. Hughes, who gets part of her health insurance through Medicaid, wouldn’t have it any other way…”