Understanding UCare's Senior Care Plus
UCare's Minnesota Senior Care Plus, often abbreviated as MSC+, is a specialized health plan that focuses on the unique needs of older adults with limited income and resources. It is important to distinguish this plan from UCare's Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO), as MSC+ serves as a Medical Assistance-only plan, while MSHO combines both Medical Assistance and Medicare benefits. The MSC+ plan provides a wide array of services that extend beyond standard healthcare, incorporating long-term care support to help members live independently in their homes and communities.
Who Is Eligible for UCare MSC+?
Eligibility for the UCare Minnesota Senior Care Plus plan is based on several criteria set by the state of Minnesota. To be considered, an individual must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Be 65 years of age or older.
- Medical Assistance Eligibility: Must be eligible for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) in Minnesota, which involves meeting certain income and asset limits.
- Residency: Be a Minnesota resident who lives within the specific service area covered by UCare's MSC+ plan.
- Medicare Status: May or may not have Medicare and Part D coverage through another health plan. Unlike MSHO, having Medicare is not a requirement, and any existing Medicare coverage is managed separately.
Key Benefits and Coverage
UCare's MSC+ plan is designed to be a comprehensive solution for eligible seniors, covering all standard Medical Assistance benefits along with a variety of additional services. These benefits are tailored to support healthy aging and long-term care needs.
Standard Medical Assistance Benefits
- Medical, mental health, and dental benefits
- Prescription drug coverage
- No-cost office visits, which can be in-person, by phone, or online
- Preventive care services and screenings
Elderly Waiver Services For those who qualify for the Elderly Waiver (EW), UCare MSC+ can include critical long-term care support to help members stay in their homes. These services might include:
- Personal care assistance
- Home health services
- Skilled nursing services in the home
- Community-based support services, such as homemaker assistance
Additional Programs and Benefits Beyond the required Medical Assistance coverage, UCare often provides additional features to enhance the member experience:
- Care coordination services, including access to a personal care coordinator
- Transportation assistance for medical appointments
- Wellness rewards for completing health screenings
- Food and nutrition assistance programs
- Access to special toolkits for fall prevention or memory support
- A nurse line for health questions
How Does a Care Coordinator Help?
A key component of the UCare MSC+ plan is the assignment of a care coordinator. This dedicated professional, often a registered nurse or a licensed social worker, plays a vital role in a member's health journey. Their responsibilities include:
- Navigating the System: Explaining how the plan and its various benefits work, helping members understand their coverage and options.
- Developing a Care Plan: Partnering with the member to set health goals and create an individualized care plan that addresses their specific needs.
- Connecting to Resources: Assisting members with arranging health services and connecting them to necessary support programs.
UCare MSC+ vs. MSHO: A Comparison
While both UCare plans serve Minnesota seniors, they cater to different eligibility requirements and offer distinct structures. Understanding the difference is crucial for making the right choice.
| Feature | UCare Minnesota Senior Care Plus (MSC+) | UCare Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Age 65+, eligible for Medical Assistance only | Age 65+, eligible for both Medical Assistance and Medicare |
| Coverage | Medical Assistance benefits, Elderly Waiver services | Combines Medicare and Medical Assistance benefits into one plan |
| Medicare Integration | Does NOT include Medicare. Medicare must be managed separately. | Combines all benefits into a single Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan. |
| ID Cards | Multiple cards for different types of coverage (Medical Assistance, Medicare, etc.) | One single ID card for all benefits and prescriptions. |
| Complexity | Requires managing two separate sets of benefits (MA and Medicare) | Simplified management with a single coordinated care system |
Enrolling in a UCare MSC+ Plan
Potential members who believe they are eligible for the UCare MSC+ plan can enroll by first confirming their eligibility for Medical Assistance through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Once eligibility is established, enrollment can be completed. It's important to consult with a County Human Services office or the Senior LinkAge Line® for personalized guidance.
Conclusion
UCare Minnesota Senior Care Plus provides an essential healthcare lifeline for eligible Minnesota seniors. By offering a robust set of Medical Assistance benefits and long-term care support through the Elderly Waiver, it enables older adults to maintain their independence and health. For those who meet the income and residency requirements and do not need to combine their Medicare, MSC+ offers a comprehensive and coordinated managed care solution designed to simplify the aging process. The inclusion of a dedicated care coordinator further enhances the plan's value, offering members personalized support in navigating their healthcare needs.
