The rehab place does not want to release my husband till we have a Hoyer lift. Is the cost for an electric one really $150 for life?

If he cannot get up by using his legs are you sure you can manage his care at home? You can always tell them that you will not be able to do what is necessary to care for him. Then they will have to find an alternate solution.

Chris, is your daughter disabled? If not, what issues does she have that are preventing her from being independent ? Think about if she would qualify for disability.

Title 19( Medicaid in Connecticut) should take into account that you are a "community spouse". Where is it that you want to move, and why do you think that will not be possible?

Does you husband have any leg strength? I hate to see a hoyer used with anyone because muscle tone is lost and things go downhill from there. The typical "cheap" hoyer has a hydraulic pump for lifting and is a real pain- the electric lift ones are easier but more expensive. Is your husband a veteran and have you checked other funding sources that may help? I will message you off-line and offer any advice I can. Good luck.

Chris, on what is Medicare's decision based? If your doctor writes a script and says it's necessary, is Medicare rejecting his opinion?

Thank you for your answers. The rehab facility did look in to financing. It seems ridiculous to charge me monthly for so long. I have just called a place that sells used medical equipment here near Hartford,CT. I am trying that avenue.

When they consider our income, it looks high but I now have a 33 yr. old daughter who is totally dependent on me as well and my very disabled husband.

If I go on Title 19 as they say, I will not have enough money to move near my family. The whole situation is very upsetting to me.

The government agencies only look at our income, not things like what my daughter's expenses are--or what my physical capabilities are either.

I need the electric equipment but Medicare does not consider that. They say the patient does not need the electric power!

Thanks, chris

I have a great doctor who works well with medicare--we've gotten whatever she requests from them. So if your doctor (or the rehab doctor) has your back, they may be able to explain to Medicare that this lift is required.

Can you ask one of his regular treating physicians to script for the electric one?

If the rehab facility feels you should have an electric one, ask them to help you find funding for it. Make it clear you cannot afford it.