Low-income seniors in Alamance County may receive health coverage through NC Medicaid. North Carolina has a robust Medicaid program that provides coverage for a wide variety of senior care services, including those provided in an assisted living facility. The state’s Personal Care Services program, which is part of traditional Medicaid, offers coverage for services including bathing, eating and mobility assistance in a private residence or a licensed assisted living facility.
NC Medicaid, including its PCS program, is an entitlement, meaning seniors who qualify for services are guaranteed to receive them.
To be eligible for NC Medicaid, applicants must be at least 65 years old (or disabled), U.S. citizens or legal residents and permanent residents of North Carolina. They must also meet income and asset guidelines. Single applicants may have a monthly income of up to $1,041 and up to $2,000 in countable assets. Married applicants may have a combined monthly income of up to $1,409 and up to $3,000 in countable assets.
In addition to this, seniors applying for the PCS program must have a physical disability, mental impairment or medical condition and require:
- Some assistance with three or more daily living activities
- Help with two daily living activities, including extensive assistance with at least one activity
- Help with two daily living activities, including one in which they rely entirely on assistance
Seniors applying to the PCS program must have their capabilities and care needs assessed by or on behalf of the
Division of Medical Assistance. NC Medicaid only covers the services outlined in a program participant’s individualized service plan.
Seniors who do not meet NC Medicaid’s income guidelines may have the option of spending down their excess income via the
Medically Needy Pathway program. Those whose income and assets exceed NC Medicaid’s guidelines may still receive services through
Medicaid planning.
Alamance County seniors may apply for NC Medicaid online or by calling the NC Medicaid Contact Center at (888) 245-0179.