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Per an announcement from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the federal Public Health Emergency created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic ended in May 2023. With the end of this Public Health Emergency (PHE) comes a number of shifts in policy that may specifically impact U.S. military veterans.
The federal government may declare a public health emergency in the face of a disorder, significant outbreak of an infectious disease, or other emergency or disaster that is determined to present a threat to the public.
Declaration of a public health emergency allows the federal government to release resources to handle a public health crisis. The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency has left a legacy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the effects of the Order include the following:
The country now has tools to detect and respond to COVID-19 variants.
The Public Health Emergency helped the country prepare for a potential surge of COVID-19 cases.
The experts issued guidance on mitigation measures, including testing and masking.
The end of the Public Health Emergency will impact many different groups of Americans, including veterans. Veterans and their families can expect the following changes as the country transitions away from the guidelines put into place during the COVID-19 PHE:
Veterans experiencing homelessness will no longer receive the direct support they did under the Public Health Emergency. The assistance veterans received included food, clothing, hygiene products, and help with finding housing and completing housing assistance forms.
Flexibility in prescribing controlled medications to veterans through telemedicine has not ended with the Public Health Emergency’s expiration. Doctors may continue prescribing controlled medications for veterans without having to complete an in-person physical examination first. (Note that the Drug Enforcement Agency has also proposed rules to make permanent the use of some telemedicine flexibilities for certain prescriptions.)
During the Public Health Emergency, Veterans Affairs (VA) relaxed rules regarding telemedicine appointments, allowing the use of various video platforms for these appointments. With the PHE’s end, the VA returns to primarily using VA Video Connect for Telehealth in order to comply with HIPAA and protect patient privacy; Webex will be used only on a restricted basis.
The Veterans Family Caregivers program will resume in-person visits for initial home care assessments, reassessments, and wellness checks.
After the Public Health Emergency expired, the VA lost the authority to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to spouses and caregivers not enrolled in VA health care.
After June 9, 2023, the VA is reinstating the pre-pandemic, 30-day deadline to submit for travel reimbursement. Veterans and caregivers will no longer have an extended deadline to apply for travel reimbursement for mileage and other travel expenses related to eligible veterans’ health care appointments.
As the country transitions out of the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, many populations will feel vulnerable, especially if they lose benefits that had been provided through the Public Health Emergency regulations. If you are a veteran impacted by these changes, consider researching the following resources:
Contact Your Local VA
HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program and the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (for veterans experiencing homelessness)
VA travel pay reimbursement (for caregivers of veterans)
If you have questions, contact Sharek Law Office at 412-347-1731 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute Call with our staff to learn how we can help you.
This article is a service of Sharek Law Office, LLC. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer a Life and Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before, and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge. Please note this is educational content only and is not intended to act as legal advice.
Making the decision to move a loved one into senior living is never easy. Its a choice that often comes with a swirl of emotionsgrief, guilt, uncertainty, and even relief. For many families, it marks the beginning of a new chapter that is both necessary and deeply emotional.At Assisted Living Locators, we understand the complexity of this transition. We're not just here to help you find the right placewere here to walk alongside you as you navigate the feelings, questions, and challenges that come with it.The Emotional Weight of the DecisionMoving a parent or loved one out of their homewhere memories were made and independence was cherishedcan feel like a loss. Even when its the right time, the reality of change can be overwhelming.Families often struggle with questions like: Are we doing the right thing? Will they feel abandoned? How do we even begin to choose the right place? These are not just logistical concerns. They're emotional ones. And theyre completely valid.You Are Not AloneEvery family has a unique story, and no two transitions look the same. Thats why a one-size-fits-all approach doesnt work. At Assisted Living Locators, we start by listeningreally listeningto your concerns, your hopes, and your loved ones needs.We help you: Understand the options available, from independent and assisted living to memory care and beyond. Navigate conversations with compassion, helping your loved one feel heard and included in the decision-making process. Find peace of mind in knowing that a knowledgeable, local expert is by your side. More Than a Placement ServiceWhat sets us apart is that were not just matching families to facilities. Were guiding people through one of lifes most sensitive and significant transitions. We offer not only practical guidance, but emotional supporthelping you make decisions with confidence, clarity, and care.Well tour communities with you, ask the hard questions, and advocate for what matters most to your family. And we do it all at no cost to you.A Step Toward Peace of MindIts okay to feel the weight of this moment. It's okay to need help. And it's okay to prioritize both your loved ones well-being and your own peace of mind.Let us be a trusted partner in this journeyso you dont have to walk it alone.Contact us today at pghassistedliving.com or (724) 972 -3202 to take the first step. Were here to help with heart, knowledge, and unwavering support.
Supporting Independence and Aging with Dignity: Understanding Care Management and Advocacy Services for Older AdultsAs the population ages, more families are finding themselves navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of elder care. From managing chronic health conditions to arranging safe housing and transportation, supporting an older adult through the aging process requires careful planning, clear information, and access to the right resources.One model that has become increasingly important in this landscape is care management, a service designed to bridge the gaps between families, healthcare providers, and community support systems. Organizations like Solutions for Independence, based in Western Pennsylvania, offer insight into how this model worksand why it matters. What Is Senior Care Management?Senior care management is a professional service that helps older adults and their families coordinate care and make informed decisions. Often led by certified care managers or aging life care professionals, these services typically include: Assessing the individuals physical, cognitive, and emotional needs Coordinating medical care and follow-ups Identifying appropriate community resources Providing support to family caregivers Assisting with transitions from hospital to home or residential care Care management can be particularly useful in complex situationssuch as when a loved one has multiple medical conditions, lives alone, or doesnt have family nearby. Its not about taking over decision-making; rather, its about providing clarity, expertise, and personalized planning. The Value of Advocacy in Elder CareAnother critical area in the aging process is advocacyespecially when it comes to navigating healthcare systems and long-term planning. Advocacy services focus on ensuring that older adults receive care that aligns with their values, preferences, and rights.Advocates often step in to: Communicate with doctors and insurance providers Help seniors and families understand legal tools like Power of Attorney Navigate public benefits such as Medicaid, Medicare, or Veterans programs Mediate family disagreements around care While medical professionals often concentrate on diagnoses and treatment, advocates take a broader viewone that includes quality of life, dignity, and autonomy. Aging in Place: A Growing PriorityAccording to AARP, nearly 90% of older adults say they want to age in place. But doing so safely and comfortably requires planningand sometimes, professional input.Services like home safety assessments can make a meaningful difference. These evaluations often identify risks such as poor lighting, slippery floors, or lack of grab bars. Recommendations may include home modifications, adaptive equipment, or the introduction of in-home care services.Some care management organizations partner directly with home health providers, physical therapists, and contractors to implement these changes. By focusing on prevention, they help reduce the risk of falls and hospitalizationstwo of the most common and costly events in older adults lives. Empowering Family CaregiversFamily caregivers are often the unsung heroes of elder carebut they can also experience burnout, decision fatigue, and emotional strain. Thats why more families are turning to services that support and coach caregivers through these challenges.Common areas of support include: Education on chronic illnesses like dementia or Parkinsons Respite care coordination Assistance with managing medical records and appointments Help during crises, such as hospitalizations or care facility transfers In these situations, a care manager or eldercare consultant can act as a neutral guide, helping families navigate tough conversations and make informed choices without the burden falling on one person. Planning for the Financial Side of CareSenior care can be expensive, and understanding available financial support options is crucial. Benefits counseling is one lesser-known but incredibly valuable service offered by many eldercare professionals.This may involve: Identifying eligibility for Medicaid waiver programs Applying for the VA Aid & Attendance pension Reviewing long-term care insurance policies Estimating out-of-pocket care expenses Advising on estate planning tools, often in partnership with legal professionals Even families with means can benefit from this guidance, especially when trying to preserve assets while ensuring quality care. A Collaborative Model for Aging WellUltimately, organizations that provide care management and advocacy serviceslike Solutions for Independencerepresent a collaborative model for aging. They don't replace the role of family or healthcare providers but instead act as coordinators, educators, and facilitators, working across disciplines to support seniors in maintaining autonomy and quality of life.Whether you're helping a parent recover after surgery, navigating a new dementia diagnosis, or simply planning for the future, knowing these services exist can make a tremendous difference. Aging well isn't just about good medical careit's also about having the right guidance, support, and plans in place. Care management and advocacy services are essential tools in this process, helping families make confident, informed decisions during what can be a challenging and emotional time. If you're starting to think about elder care for a loved oneor even for yourselfconsider learning more about care management and how it might fit into your plan. The more proactive you are, the more options youll have to ensure safety, independence, and peace of mind.
Wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are crucial for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These conditions can lead to physical limitations, such as difficulty with mobility, balance, and coordination, which can make everyday tasks and activities a challenge.A stroke or heart attack can impact a persons life in many ways, including the ability to enter and exit their home. The installation of a wheelchair ramp can provide a safer, more convenient means of access to and from the home, improving overall independence and quality of life.In addition to being useful for individuals who have suffered a stroke or heart attack, wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products can also be beneficial for those with other physical limitations, such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.Here, we will discuss the importance of wheelchair ramps and accessibility products for those who have survived a stroke or heart attack, and how they can make a significant difference in improving overall independence and quality of life.The Benefits of Wheelchair Ramps for People with Stroke or Heart AttackImproved MobilityThe primary benefit of a wheelchair ramp is improved mobility and independence. A ramp allows individuals who use a wheelchair or walker to safely enter and exit their home, which can increase their independence and reduce the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps can provide a convenient means of accessing public buildings, such as grocery stores, doctors offices, and other essential locations.ConvenienceWheelchair ramps are also convenient for individuals who experience mobility challenges as a result of a stroke or heart attack. Traditional steps can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who have limited mobility, balance, or coordination. A ramp eliminates the need to navigate stairs, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps are typically wider than steps, making it easier for individuals to maneuver and move about regardless of whether or not they use a mobility aid.Increased SafetyOne of the most important benefits of wheelchair ramps for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack is increased safety. Steps can be slippery, especially in inclement weather, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. A ramp provides a stable, slip-resistant surface that can be used in all weather conditions. Additionally, ramps typically have handrails, providing additional support and stability for individuals who need it.Cost-Effective SolutionWheelchair ramps can also be a cost-effective solution for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. Traditional home modifications can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. A ramp is a more affordable option and may be covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs. Additionally, ramps can be installed quickly and easily, reducing the disruption to the home and daily routines.The Importance of Accessibility ProductsIn addition to wheelchair ramps, there are many other accessibility products available that can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall independence and quality of life, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities.Grab BarsGrab bars are a simple but effective accessibility product that can be installed in the bathroom, bedroom, and other areas of the home. They provide a secure and stable surface for individuals who need support when getting in and out of the shower or bath, when using the toilet, or when sitting and standing in various areas around the home. Grab bars are available in a variety of styles and finishes, making it easy to find a product that complements the dcor of the home.Stair LiftsStair lifts are a more advanced accessibility product that can be installed in homes with multiple levels. These devices allow individuals to safely navigate stairs, eliminating the need to climb steps. Stair lifts come in a variety of styles and designs, including straight and curved options, to accommodate different types of staircases. There are also options for both indoor and outdoor staircases.Transfer BenchesTransfer benches are another useful accessibility product for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These benches provide a safe and stable surface for individuals to transfer in and out of the shower or bath. Transfer benches have a slip-resistant seat and backrest, and can be adjusted to accommodate different heights.ElevatorsFor individuals who live in multi-level homes, elevators can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for improving accessibility. These devices can be installed in the home, providing individuals with a safe and secure means of accessing different levels of the home. Elevators can be customized to meet the specific needs of the individual and can be equipped with safety features, such as emergency stop buttons and intercoms.ConclusionWheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are essential for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall mobility, convenience, safety, and independence, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities. Whether you are looking to install a ramp, grab bars, stair lifts, transfer benches, or elevators, it is important to work with a reputable and experienced provider to ensure the best possible outcome. Amramp Accessibility is a leading provider of accessibility solutions and is dedicated to helping individuals with physical limitations live a more independent and fulfilling life. Contact us at 800-649-5215 to learn more.
Comprehensive Special Needs Estate Planning & Special Needs Trusts in PennsylvaniaEstate planning for families with special needs children presents a unique set of financial, legal, and healthcare challenges that require the expertise of a special needs planning attorney. Not all estate planning lawyers understand the intricacies involved, but the experienced special needs estate planning attorneys at Entrusted Legacy Law are dedicated to ensuring your child with special needs is fully protected when you are no longer able to serve as their primary caregiver.We provide a full range of estate planning services tailored to families with special needs children in Pennsylvania. Our goal is to help you preserve assets for your childs future care while ensuring they remain eligible for essential government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). We assist in setting up special needs trusts (SNTs) to safeguard financial resources, appointing legal guardians and trustees, and identifying long-term care options to ensure your child receives the best possible support and housing solutions.Special Needs Trusts & Asset ProtectionOne of the most significant challenges in special needs financial planning is ensuring that your child has adequate resources without jeopardizing their eligibility for public assistance programs. Many families unknowingly risk disqualifying their child from essential benefits by leaving them a direct financial inheritance. Instead, the best strategy is to establish a special needs trust to provide financial security while preserving their access to Medicaid, SSI, and other government assistance programs.A properly structured special needs trust allows funds to be used for supplemental expensessuch as medical care, therapy, education, and personal carewithout affecting eligibility for disability benefits. However, the regulations governing these trusts are complex. Funds must be managed by a designated trustee and cannot be distributed directly to the beneficiary, as this could trigger disqualification from public benefits. Additionally, a child's needs evolve over time, making it critical to have a trust that can adapt to changing circumstances and legal requirements.By working with an experienced Pennsylvania special needs attorney, you can ensure that your childs special needs trust is legally sound, structured correctly, and customized to their specific requirements.Special Needs Planning for Families in PennsylvaniaAt Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for children with disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental or intellectual disabilities. Our firm helps families create a comprehensive life care plan that provides financial security while safeguarding access to government benefits and essential support services.Whether you need help establishing a special needs trust, securing a legal guardian, or planning for long-term care and housing, our Pennsylvania special needs planning attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to start creating a sustainable, secure future for your child with special needs.
Estate Planning for Everyone You Love and Everything You OwnHave you ever considered what would happenlegally and financiallyto you, your family, your assets, and everything you care about if the unexpected were to occur?If your estate plan is outdated or non-existent, your assets could be lost to the State Department of Unclaimed Property, subjected to an expensive and time-consuming probate process, or even end up in the wrong hands. Without a comprehensive estate plan, your loved ones may face unnecessary financial hardship, legal disputes, or court intervention at a time when they need certainty and protection the most.If you dont know exactly what would happen to everything you own and everyone you love, the first step is to gain clarity. You need to understand how your current estate plan (or lack thereof) will impact your family so you can make informed decisions about whether it truly aligns with your wishes.How Entrusted Legacy Law Helps You With Estate PlanningWe offer customized estate planning solutions designed to protect your family, preserve your wealth, and ensure your wishes are honored. Through our Life and Legacy Planning Session, we take the time to educate you on the legal, financial, and personal implications of your estate choices.Step 1: The Life and Legacy Inventory & AssessmentBefore your Life and Legacy Planning Session, you will complete a comprehensive estate inventory that outlines your financial assets, real estate holdings, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other valuable property. This step ensures that we have a full picture of your estate and can identify potential gaps in your asset protection strategy.Step 2: Creating a Personalized Estate PlanIf you decide that your current estate plan is inadequateor if you dont have one at allwe will work together to design a legally sound and strategically structured estate plan that meets your familys unique needs. The foundation of your estate plan will often include a revocable living trust, which allows you to transfer your assets into the trust while maintaining control during your lifetime.Benefits of a Revocable Living Trust: Avoid Probate Prevents the time-consuming and expensive court process that could otherwise delay asset distribution. Minimize Estate Taxes Helps reduce tax liabilities and protect your wealth for future generations. Ensure Privacy Unlike a will, which becomes public record, a trust ensures your estate remains private. Maintain Control Dictate how and when your assets are distributed to your heirs.For families with complex financial portfolios, business ownership, or special circumstances (such as blended families or special needs children), we offer advanced estate planning strategies tailored to your specific goals.Can You DIY Your Estate Plan?Many people wonder if they can create an estate plan using online templates or generic legal services. Unfortunately, most DIY estate plans fail when families need them the most. What often passes for "estate planning" is nothing more than basic document generation, where you answer a few questions and receive a generic template that may not fully protect your assets or your loved ones. No Personalization A generic template cannot address your unique family dynamics, financial situation, or specific legal concerns. Legal Loopholes Improperly structured wills or trusts may be contested in court, leaving your family in legal disputes. No Ongoing Maintenance Estate laws change, and without updates, your plan may become outdated and ineffective.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we dont just draft documentswe provide comprehensive estate planning services that ensure your estate plan actually works when it matters most. We take the time to understand your familys needs, educate you on your options, and create a legally enforceable, tax-efficient, and conflict-free estate plan that gives you peace of mind.Protecting Families & Minor Children Through Estate PlanningIf you are a parent with young children, your estate plan should begin with a solid foundation that ensures your children will always be taken care of, no matter what happens. Without the proper legal protections in place, your children could end up in the custody of someone you wouldnt have chosenor worse, under state guardianship.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for families with minor children. We help parents:Name Legal Guardians Ensure your children are raised by trusted individuals of your choosing.Set Up Trusts for Minor Children Prevent financial mismanagement by appointing a responsible trustee to oversee assets.Establish Emergency Plans Provide clear instructions for immediate care in case of sudden incapacity or death.Whether youre planning for minor children, adult dependents, elderly parents, or a complex estate, we can guide you through the estate planning process with personalized strategies to protect your familys future.Secure Your Legacy With Entrusted Legacy LawEstate planning isnt just about who gets whatits about ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure, legally protected, and prepared for the future.If you want to create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes, avoids probate, minimizes taxes, and keeps your loved ones out of court and out of conflict, then now is the time to take action Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to schedule your Life and Legacy Planning Session and take the first step in protecting your family, your assets, and your future.
Our Firm Prepares You for Life What makes our firm different is that we were built with the needs of growing families in mind. We understand you are BUSY, you are growing, you are planning for a life of prosperity and you value ease, convenience and efficiency. You are raising children, and caring for elderly parents, while also working hard to build your own nest egg for a lifetime of support. You want to know youve made the best decisions for your family and that your plan will work when your loved ones need it most. You want to make sure your minor children would be raised by the people you choose, and never by anyone you wouldnt want, and that your teens and adult children are properly prepared to care for you and what you leave behind. You want to feel confident that youve made the right choices, and handled everything so that you arent leaving behind a mess, when something happens. That is our focus as well. Weve developed unique systems to give you the same access to a Personal Family Lawyer as was previously only available to the super-wealthy, so you can have the guidance you need to build and maintain a life of prosperity and wealth. And, to keep your family out of court and out of conflict, which is the greatest risk to the people you love and all you have created, even if youve already worked with a traditional lawyer or created documents online. Our Team Is Here for You We encourage communication with our clients. In fact, weve thrown out the time clocks so you never have to be afraid to call with a quick question. Everything we do is billed on a flat-fee basis, agreed to in advance, so there are never any surprises. We have a whole team to serve you. When you call our office to ask your quick question, you wont have to wait hours or days for a phone call back. Youll get your question answered, right away. And, if you need to schedule a more in-depth legal or strategic call with your Personal Family Lawyer, a call will be scheduled when you're both available and ready for the call so we can make the very best use of your time and not waste your time by leaving voicemail after voicemail back and forth. And, we ensure the most important details of your planning are followed through on and your plan continues to work throughout your lifetime. We have a funding coordinator to ensure your assets are owned the right way throughout your lifetime and none of your assets will end up going through a long, expensive court process or being lost to the state because they were missed after your death. Weve created unique membership programs to keep your plan up to date year in and year out as well as give you access to our Trusted Team of Legal Experts for guidance on ANY legal or financial matter. One day you will need a lawyer. I dont know why and I dont know when, but when you do, you will be grateful you can call on us and well be here to advise you or get you out of a jam. We Help You Transfer Your Life and Legacy Lastly, we believe your financial wealth is only a small part of your overall Life and Legacy Planning which is made up of your far more valuable and most often lost upon incapacity or death intellectual, spiritual and human assets. These assets are what make you who you are, and sum up whats most important to you. And, a survey of inheritors has revealed that what they care about even more than inheriting your money, is inheriting these intangible assets. Most estate plans only focus on the transfer of your financial wealth to the next generation. Most people have such great intentions of passing on the intangible, but very few ever get around to it. Its just not a priority, until its too late. How much do you know about your grandparents values? Their most prized personal possessions? How they felt about you? What they had learned during their lifetime? If you are like most people, you know very little. Thats why we build the capture and passage of these most valuable assets into every estate plan we create. Not only will we help you pass on your money, but also your values, your insights, your stories and your experience the truly valuable assets your loved ones care about the most. Weve developed a tool that allows us to capture and pass on your whole family wealth, including your Intellectual, Spiritual and Human assets. I cant go into all of the details here, but well definitely talk about it when you come in for your Life and Legacy Planning Session.