July 24

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Intermediate Care in Long-Term Care Insurance: What You Need to Know

By Harrison O'Reill

July 24, 2023


If you’re considering long-term care insurance, it’s important to understand the different types of care that are covered. One type of care that may be included in your policy is intermediate care.

This level of care is often provided in a skilled nursing facility or nursing home and can be a good option for those who need more assistance than what’s available in assisted living but don’t require the level of medical care provided in a hospital.

In this article, you will learn in greater depth about intermediate care, why it’s provided, and other types of care in this service. We’ll also explain how you can choose the kinds of care best suited for you.

Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance that helps cover the costs of long-term care services. These services can include nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care. Long-term care insurance can help pay for these services when they are needed and can help protect you from the high costs of long-term care.

Types of Long-Term Care Insurance

There are several types of long-term care insurance policies, including skilled nursing care, personal care, and intermediate care.

Intermediate care is a type of long-term care that provides assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Intermediate care is often provided in a residential setting, such as an assisted living facility.

Intermediate care is a good option for individuals who need some assistance with daily activities but do not require the level of care provided by skilled nursing care. Intermediate care can also be less expensive than skilled nursing care, making it a more affordable option for many people.

Long-term care insurance can be an important part of your retirement planning. By understanding the different types of long-term care insurance, you can make an informed decision about which type of policy is right for you.

With the right long-term care insurance policy, you can help protect your retirement savings from the high costs of long-term care.

Intermediate Care in Long-Term Care Insurance

Having intermediate care coverage in your long-term care insurance policy can provide peace of mind knowing that you will have access to the care you need if you require assistance with daily living activities. This type of coverage can also help you avoid having to pay for these services out of pocket, which can be costly.

Cost of Intermediate Care Coverage

The cost of intermediate care coverage in your long-term care insurance policy will depend on a variety of factors, including your age, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. It is important to work with an experienced insurance agent to determine the best coverage options for your needs and budget.

Limitations of Intermediate Care Coverage

It is important to note that intermediate care coverage in your long-term care insurance policy may have limitations. For example, there may be a limit on the number of days or years that you can receive this type of care. It is important to carefully review your policy and understand the limitations before you purchase a policy.

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Other Types of Care in Long-Term Care Insurance

When it comes to long-term care insurance, there are a variety of types of care that may be covered.

Skilled Nursing Care

Skilled nursing care is provided by licensed nurses and may include services such as wound care, medication management, and rehabilitation therapy. This type of care is typically needed for individuals who require more intensive medical attention than can be provided in an assisted living facility.

Assisted Living Care

Assisted living care is designed for individuals who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating but who do not require the level of medical attention provided in a skilled nursing facility. Assisted living facilities may also offer social activities and other amenities.

Home Health Care

Home health care allows individuals to receive care in their own homes. This type of care may include nursing services, physical therapy, and other types of medical care. Home health care can be a good option for individuals who want to remain in their own homes but need assistance with daily activities.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is designed for individuals who are terminally ill and may have only a few months to live. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support to the individual and their family during this difficult time. This type of care may be provided in a hospice facility or in the individual’s own home.

Choosing the Right Long-Term Care Insurance Policy

When it comes to choosing the right long-term care insurance policy, there are several factors to consider. Intermediate care is a type of care that is often covered by long-term care insurance policies. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a policy that covers intermediate care.

Factors to Consider

When selecting a long-term care insurance policy, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • Coverage: Make sure the policy covers intermediate care, as well as other types of care you may need in the future.
  • Cost: Consider the cost of the policy, as well as any deductibles, co-pays, or other out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Provider network: Check to see if the policy has a provider network and if your preferred providers are in the network.
  • Benefits: Look at the benefits offered by the policy, such as coverage for home health care, assisted living, and skilled nursing care.

Comparing Policies

Once you have a list of long-term care insurance policies that cover intermediate care, it’s important to compare them. Look at the following factors:

  • Cost: Compare the cost of each policy, as well as any out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Coverage: Make sure each policy covers intermediate care and any other types of care you may need in the future.
  • Benefits: Look at the benefits offered by each policy and compare them to see which policy offers the most comprehensive coverage.
  • Provider network: Check to see if your preferred providers are in the network for each policy.

Working with an Insurance Agent

If you’re having trouble selecting a long-term care insurance policy, consider working with an insurance agent. An agent can help you navigate the complex world of long-term care insurance and find a policy that meets your needs and budget. They can also help you compare policies and understand the benefits and drawbacks of each one.

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In conclusion, choosing the right long-term care insurance policy is an important decision. When selecting a policy that covers intermediate care, make sure to consider factors such as coverage, cost, provider network, and benefits. Compare policies and consider working with an insurance agent to help you make the best decision for your needs.

Conclusion

In summary, intermediate care is a type of long-term care that provides a middle ground between skilled nursing care and custodial care. This type of care is ideal for individuals who require some medical assistance but do not need the level of care provided by skilled nursing facilities. Intermediate care facilities offer a range of services, including medication management, physical therapy, and personal care.

When considering long-term care insurance, it is important to understand the different types of care that are covered. Intermediate care is often included in long-term care insurance policies, but it is important to review the policy carefully to ensure that it meets your specific needs.

It is also important to note that long-term care insurance policies vary widely in terms of coverage, cost, and benefits. Before purchasing a policy, it is recommended that you research different options and consult with a financial advisor or insurance agent to determine the best option for your individual situation.

Overall, intermediate care can provide a valuable option for individuals who require some medical assistance but do not need the level of care provided by skilled nursing facilities. With the right long-term care insurance policy, you can ensure that you have access to the care you need when you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this topic.

What is Intermediate Care?

Intermediate care is a level of care that falls between skilled nursing care and custodial care. It is designed for individuals who need some assistance with daily living activities but do not require the level of medical care provided in a skilled nursing facility. Intermediate care can be provided in a variety of settings, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health care.

What Services are Provided with Intermediate Care?

Intermediate care provides a range of services to help individuals with their daily living activities. These services may include assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. Intermediate care also provides medication management, meal preparation, and transportation to appointments. Additionally, intermediate care may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

How is Intermediate Care Different from Skilled Nursing Care?

Intermediate care is less intensive than skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing care provides a higher level of medical care, including 24-hour nursing care, wound care, and IV therapy. Skilled nursing care is typically provided in a hospital or nursing home setting.

Intermediate care, on the other hand, is designed for individuals who need some assistance with daily living activities but do not require the level of medical care provided in a skilled nursing facility.

Is Intermediate Care Covered by Long-Term Care Insurance?

Most long-term care insurance policies cover intermediate care. However, the specific coverage will depend on the terms of your policy.

It is important to review your policy carefully to understand what types of care are covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. Some policies may have a waiting period before coverage begins, so it is important to plan ahead and purchase long-term care insurance well before you need it.

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