Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. These attacks can cause inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues.

While autoimmune diseases can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, they are more prevalent in women than men. There are over 80 different types of autoimmune diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

How Autoimmune Diseases Impact Daily Life

Living with an autoimmune disease can be challenging. Depending on the type of autoimmune disease, individuals may experience a range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and difficulty breathing.

These symptoms can make it difficult for people to carry out everyday tasks, such as getting dressed, cooking meals, and driving. In some cases, people with autoimmune diseases may require ongoing nursing care.

The Cost of Nursing Care for Autoimmune Diseases

While nursing care can be incredibly beneficial for people with autoimmune diseases, it can also be expensive.

The cost of nursing care can vary depending on several factors, including the type of care needed, the level of expertise required, and the location. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the median monthly cost of a home health aide in the United States is roughly $4,576 per month, and the median monthly cost of a private room in a nursing home is roughly $8,821 per month.

Insurance Coverage for Nursing Care

For many people with autoimmune diseases, insurance can help cover the cost of nursing care. However, navigating the insurance system can be confusing, and not all types of insurance will provide coverage for nursing care.

Below are some of the different types of insurance that may provide coverage for nursing care:.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage to people over the age of 65 or those with certain disabilities. While Medicare does cover some nursing care, the coverage is limited.

For example, Medicare will cover up to 100 days of skilled nursing care in a nursing home facility per benefit period, but only after a qualifying hospital stay.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health insurance to people with low income and limited assets. Medicaid does cover nursing care, but the type and amount of care covered can vary depending on the state.

In many cases, Medicaid will cover the cost of nursing home care, but only for people who meet certain eligibility requirements.

Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance plans offered by employers or purchased on the individual market may provide coverage for nursing care. However, coverage can vary widely depending on the plan.

Some plans may cover only a portion of the cost of nursing care, while others may have specific restrictions on the type of care covered.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is specifically designed to cover the cost of nursing care. This type of insurance can provide coverage for nursing home care, as well as in-home care, such as the services of a home health aide.

However, long-term care insurance can be expensive and may not be available to everyone. It is important to carefully review and compare different long-term care insurance policies before purchasing.

Workers’ Compensation

For people who develop an autoimmune disease as a result of their job, workers’ compensation may provide coverage for nursing care. However, eligibility for workers’ compensation can be complex and may require the assistance of an attorney.

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases can be debilitating and require ongoing nursing care. While the cost of nursing care can be expensive, there are various types of insurance that may provide coverage.

It is important to carefully review and compare different insurance policies to ensure that the type and amount of nursing care needed is covered. Additionally, working with an experienced insurance agent or attorney can help navigate the complex insurance system.