We mentioned a new ratings system for long-term care facilities earlier, and today The Tennesseeean had an article about how it's up to consumers to choose a good provider.  This is so true, and I wanted to elaborate a bit.

With the new ratings system giving each facility a star rating, like a hotel, it makes comparing unknown nursing facilities a bit easier.  All facilities are going to have their bad apples, but steadfast managers will weed out the bad employees over time.

What the newspaper article points out is that observing a facility firsthand is paramount.  Take a week off if possible and go drop in on facilities to see how things are run.  One of the comments suggests going the day after a holiday or on a weekend; seems like valuable advice to me.

One statistic that few people are aware of is that 75% of claims for long-term care insurance are in the form of payments to home health care assistants and agencies.  This is surprising yet obvious.  Given the choice, consumers prefer to stay at home as long as possible.  Once you qualify for long-term care insurance benefits, you generally will have leeway in the type of care you receive.

We recommend those wanting to learn more visit our Long-Term Care 101 Class or submit a quote request and we'll be happy to step you through the process.