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Does WellCare Insurance Cover Assisted Living?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
No, WellCare insurance doesn’t cover assisted living. WellCare provides Medicare Advantage plans — also known as Part C plans — which are different from long-term care insurance. Crucially, WellCare’s insurance primarily covers medical services rather than custodial care.
Overview of WellCare insurance
WellCare is a private Medicare-approved insurer that offers several Medicare Advantage plans, including:
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans
- Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
In short, Medicare Advantage combines Part A and Part B. It often includes additional benefits, such as vision, dental and prescription drug coverage. Some plans also cover short-term stays in nursing homes. However, although precise coverage varies by area and plan, none pay for costs associated with residing in an assisted living facility.
Paying for assisted living
Those who want a safety net for their future may consider long-term care insurance plans that specifically cover assisted living. Many seniors use private funds, such as pensions, savings and veterans benefits, to pay for their care, and some families help out financially. For property owners, reverse mortgages or rental income may be options to consider.
Seniors with limited means may qualify for Medicaid or waiver programs, which reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Similarly, the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly operates in specific areas. While regular Medicare and Part C plans don’t directly cover assisted living, they reduce other costs, freeing up more funds to pay for long-term care.