Medicaid is the largest public payer for long term care services in the United States. It is the only major source of financial assistance for long term care for people with Alzheimer's disease.  They may need Medicaid coverage for services like nursing home care or personal care in the home since the disease causes more severe disabilities over time and families often cannot provide all the care needed.

States run Medicaid under broad federal guidelines, which are related to financial eligibility standards for Medicaid, mandatory health and long term care services, as well optional services.  Mandatory services include physician, hospital, home health, and nursing home services.  Optional services include personal care, eyeglasses, dental care, and medical transportation, among many others.

Medicaid spending is one of the fastest growing parts of state budgets. During a time of economic problems, tight state budgets and ever increasing healthcare costs, states need federal help. Medicaid is close to the breaking point in many states.  The program is called upon to do too much, for too many people, with too little money. Budget cuts to Medicaid could have devastating effects on people with Alzheimer's disease.

The Alzheimer's Association calls on Congress and the President to maintain the Medicaid long term care safety net while expanding options and supports for family-centered home and community-based care.

This includes:

• Maintaining the federal entitlements and quality assurance provisions of current law.

• Providing additional financial assistance to the states to maintain current benefits and to improve quality, particularly through improved payment for staffing.

• Expanding options for family-centered home and community based care.

In this section, learn more about Medicaid and Alzheimer's issues, and how advocates are making a difference:

• Medicaid Proposals

• Medicaid Prescription Drugs

• HCBS Waivers

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