South Carolina is facing a shortage of Medicaid beds for residents who need them, WCBD-TV of Charleston reports. The rising senior citizen population, soldiers returning from war and stroke patients in need of care are fueling the demand for beds even as the supply falls short.
What’s at Stake
The 2010 census showed that 900,000 elderly people live in South Carolina. Unfortunately, the state has about 11,000 Medicaid beds to accommodate them. This means there are 11 beds for every 82 seniors who live here.
Lieutenant Governor Glenn McConnell is trying to improve the situation by asking the House of Representatives to provide more aid for community-based programs. Currently, 8,000 senior citizens require in-home care and need support. McConnell believes that finding ways to enhance home and community programs will prevent overcrowding in nursing homes.
Many seniors and others who would otherwise rely on Medicaid beds would rather not have to live in a nursing home. Community alternatives could provide quality care for patients in their homes. They also are cost effective. A fully equipped nursing bed costs almost $40,000 while home care is significantly less.
Need Legal Help?
The decision to place someone you love in a nursing home can be very difficult. But you expect that your loved one will be safe there. Sadly, some nursing homes don’t live up to their promise of compassionate care. Our attorneys at Joye Law Firm understand how devastating it is to learn that your family member has been mistreated in a South Carolina nursing home. This is why we are always ready to fight for your rights if someone you love is the victim of abuse or neglect in a nursing home.
Please contact our South Carolina nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys at (888) 324-3100 or fill out our convenient online form for a free consultation.
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