Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota adds Hennepin Healthcare to Medicare Advantage Network

When a loved one begins to need long-term care, the emotional weight alone can feel overwhelming. But when you add the financial stress of nursing home care, home care costs, and the complexities of Medicaid eligibility, families in the Denver Metro area often find themselves facing decisions they never expected to make.Thats why expert Medicaid planning matters. And throughout Denver Metro, AAA Medicaid Consulting has become a trusted guide for seniors and families who want to protect their life savings, access necessary care, and move through the Medicaid application process with clarity and confidence.This article explores how Medicaid planning works, why its essential for Denver-area seniors, and how AAA Medicaid Consulting supports families during one of the most important financial and healthcare transitions of their lives.Why Medicaid Planning Matters in Denver MetroThe cost of long-term care continues to rise across Coloradoespecially in the Denver Metro area. According to recent statewide data: The average cost of nursing home care in Colorado is often $9,000$11,000 per month. Assisted living communities in Denver Metro commonly range from $5,000$7,000 per month, depending on care needs. Home care averages $35$40 per hour, and those needing 24/7 care may see costs climb quickly. These numbers make one thing very clear: Without proper planning, long-term care can deplete a lifetime of savings in just a few months.Medicaid (called Health First Colorado in the state) is the only government program that helps cover long-term care costs. However, qualifying is not simple. Strict income limits, asset rules, and documentation requirements make the process confusing and stressful for most families.Thats where AAA Medicaid Consulting steps inhelping seniors confidently navigate the system without risking costly mistakes.What Is Medicaid Planning?Medicaid planning is the process of helping seniors structure their finances and assets in a way that aligns with Medicaid guidelines so they can: Qualify for benefits Protect the spouse who remains at home Avoid unnecessary spend-down Access care without delay Prevent application denials that cause months-long setbacks Contrary to common belief, Medicaid planning isnt about hiding assets. Its about using legal, ethical strategies to ensure seniors receive the care they need while preserving what theyve worked so hard to earn.AAA Medicaid Consulting specializes in this work, supporting families in Denver Metro with not only the planning process but also the full Medicaid application from start to finish.How AAA Medicaid Consulting Supports Denver Metro SeniorsAAA Medicaid Consulting has helped thousands of Colorado families overcome the fear and confusion surrounding Medicaid eligibility. Their goal is simple: make the process understandable, efficient, and financially safer for seniors and their loved ones.Below are core ways they help families in the Denver Metro area.1. Personalized Medicaid Eligibility AssessmentsEvery familys financial picture is differentassets, income, home ownership, and caregiving needs all play a role. AAA Medicaid Consulting conducts a detailed review to determine: Whether the senior is currently eligible What steps are needed to qualify How assets can be protected Whether a spouse at home can be safeguarded financially Many families discover they may qualify much sooner than they expected.2. Full-Service Medicaid Application AssistanceColorados Medicaid application requires extensive documentation, often across multiple agencies. One missing bank statement or incorrectly completed form can delay approval for months.AAA Medicaid Consulting manages the entire process, including: Gathering documentation Completing all forms Communicating with Medicaid caseworkers Ensuring deadlines are met Responding to additional requests Guiding families every step of the way This level of support relieves stress and prevents avoidable errors.3. Spend-Down Strategies That Protect AssetsFamilies are often told they must spend everything before a loved one can qualify for Medicaid. This is not true.AAA Medicaid Consulting helps seniors legally and strategically: Protect certain assets Use allowable spend-down methods Avoid penalties related to improper transfers Support the spouse who remains at home Prevent long-term financial harm This is one of the primary reasons families in Denver Metro seek professional helpthere is too much at risk to guess.4. Spousal Support & Community Spouse ProtectionsMany seniors entering long-term care still have a spouse living at home. Medicaid has specific rules to ensure the community spouse isnt left financially vulnerable.AAA Medicaid Consulting helps spouses understand: Resource limits Income allowances What assets can be kept How to legally protect the home Steps to ensure the spouse at home remains financially stable For many families, this is the most urgent issueand one that requires immediate expert guidance.5. Local Expertise Rooted in Denver Metro RealitiesDenver Metros aging population continues to grow. Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Denver counties alone have experienced significant increases in residents aged 65+. More families are seeking long-term care, and more seniors are applying for Medicaid than ever before.AAA Medicaid Consultings deep familiarity with local facilities, caseworkers, and county processes gives families an advantagebecause Medicaid processing varies widely by county and caseworker.Their local knowledge helps keep things moving smoothly.A Helpful Reminder from the AAA Medicaid Consulting Team Families dont have to navigate Medicaid alone. The process is overwhelming at first, but with expert guidance, it becomes manageableand you gain peace of mind knowing your loved ones care and assets are protected. Jennifer Erickson, from the team This message reflects AAA Medicaid Consultings philosophy: support, clarity, and compassion every step of the way.When Should Families in Denver Metro Start Medicaid Planning?The best time to begin planning is before a crisis occurs, but most families dont know they need help until care is urgently needed.You should contact AAA Medicaid Consulting if: A loved one is entering a nursing home In-home care costs are becoming too high Youre concerned about protecting savings or the family home A spouse is transitioning to long-term care Youve been denied Medicaid or are stuck in the application process Youre confused by asset and income rules A simple consultation can prevent months of stress and thousands of dollars in unnecessary spending.Frequently Asked Questions About Medicaid Planning in Denver Metro1. Does Medicaid pay for assisted living in Denver Metro?Both Medicaid and the Elderly, Blind & Disabled (EBD) waiver may cover certain services in assisted living, depending on eligibility. AAA Medicaid Consulting helps families determine what programs apply.2. How much money can a senior keep and still qualify for Medicaid?Medicaid has strict income and resource limits. However, many assets may be exempt, and strategies exist to help seniors qualify without losing everything.3. What if there is a spouse at home?Colorado has strong community spouse protections. The spouse at home may keep certain assets, income, and the family home. AAA Medicaid Consulting ensures the spouse is fully protected.4. We were denied Medicaidcan you still help?Absolutely. Denials are common and often due to incomplete documentation. AAA Medicaid Consulting can review the denial, correct errors, and resubmit the application properly.5. How long does the Medicaid application process take in Colorado?It typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the county and complexity. Professional help can significantly reduce delays.Your Next Step: Connect with AAA Medicaid ConsultingMedicaid planning is one of the most important financial decisions a family will ever make. Whether youre preparing for future care needs or navigating a sudden crisis, AAA Medicaid Consulting is here to help Denver Metro families protect their loved ones, their assets, and their peace of mind.Visit their Seniors Blue Book listing to learn more or get in touch AAA Medicaid Consulting is ready to guide you through every step of the processbecause no family should face Medicaid alone.

Medicare and health plans can be complex, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions about coverage whether you are already on Medicare or just about to start. First, Medicare includes Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical), is provided by the government. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medical supplies. Medicare doesnt cover everything, which means your cost may be higher on certain services.To provide additional coverage, many individuals opt to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) to supplement their benefits. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers, these plans bundle Parts A and B and often include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and additional benefits, such as dental, vision, and hearing.Medicare Advantage plans vary in their networks of doctors, hospitals, and prescription drug coverage.  So, it is essential to carefully compare them to ensure they cover the doctors and prescriptions you need.Its important to consider your health status, the prescription medications you take, any chronic conditions you may have, even the gyms you go to. This will help you determine the plan and level of coverage you require. Its important to consider your budget when selecting a Medicare plan. Take into account monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments each plan may have.For those just about to start Medicare you have a limited window of opportunity to choose a plan. Deadlines can apply when you turn 65 or when you choose to retire.   For those already on Medicare, health plans can change from year to year, including coverage, costs, and provider networks. So, taking time to review your options is important. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) is your opportunity to reassess your Medicare coverage to ensure it still meets your needs. Finally, many find navigating this complex world of Medicare overwhelming. If this is you, then you are not alone. The solution is having a knowledgeable, licensed insurance agent by your side to ensure youre making the best choice for your healthcare needs. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carleen Lachman. Carleen is an Independent Insurance Broker and owner of Prioritize Health. She may be reached at 724-571-4688 or by email at carleen@prioritizehealthpa.com. See ad on page 87.  

Having just completed another Annual Enrollment Period, reviewing coverage options and costs, I thought it appropriate to learn some interesting facts about Medicare. Since President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law on July 30, 1965, millions of Americans have relied on it for medical care.Part A and Part B, called original Medicare, were included in the 1965 law. In 1997, Congress created Part C, now Medicare Advantage, the private insurance alternative. In 2003, lawmakers added Part D, covering prescriptions.Today, more than 67.4 million Americans are enrolled over 60 million are 65+ and 7 million are younger people with disabilities. President and First Lady Truman were the first Medicare beneficiaries.The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has 10 regional offices, serving approximately 125 million people with Medicaid and Medicare coverage.Medicare helped desegregate hospitals after the Civil Rights Act. To receive federal funding, hospitals had to comply and desegregate.51 million people are enrolled in Medicare Part B, which helps pay for physician, hospital, outpatient, some home health, and preventive services.Last year, over 16 million people chose a private Medicare Advantage plan, like an HMO or PPO, as an alternative to original Medicare.Currently, 41 million Medicare beneficiaries have prescription drug coverage through a Medicare health plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan.Some items and services Medicare doesnt cover include:         Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)         Long-term care         Cosmetic surgery         Massage therapy         Hearing aids and exams for fitting themAs we approach the 60th anniversary of the Medicare and Medicaid Act, keep in mind that if you need assistance with your Medicare decisions, a licensed advisor can help. Theyll learn about your health goals and budget, present options, and help you enroll. Crystal Manning has over 35 years of experience assisting clients.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Crystal Manning. She can be reached at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail.com. You may also contact her daughter, Dvyona Sedlacko-Stephens, at 412-657-3889 or djsedlacko@gmail.com. See ad on page 85.