 | William M. (Bill) Ward
is CEO of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Inc. Mr. Ward joined Presbyterian Manors in 1996 after serving as chairman of the board. Presbyterian Manors, a not-for-profit organization with a 54-year history in Kansas, operates 17 communities in Kansas and Missouri. Mr. Ward is a member of several organizations serving health care and retirement services, including the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. Mr. Ward may be contacted at Presbyterian Manors' home office: (316) 685-1100 or (800) 336-8511. |
Senior Living
2003-11-01 08:09:00
Negotiable fees at assisted living?
: How is the fee determined at an assisted living facility? Is it negotiable?
ANSWER: In general, organizations operating assisted living residences determine a fee schedule based on the type of lodging (studio, one bedroom apartment) and the size or square footage of the residence. There may be several one-bedroom floor plans in a range of sizes. This "base" is essentially determined by the size of the living accommodations and the services provided as part of the basic package. Because the cost of buildings vary and the type of services offered in a basic package may also vary, you'll find variations in the fees that are charged at different assisted living residences. This would be similar to differences found in apartment communities based on the size of the apartment and amenities offered. In addition to this base rate there will be an additional charge based on the level of care. Most assisted living providers offer at least two additional levels of care, and may offer as many as four or more. Each of these levels of care is determined based on a thorough evaluation of the needs of the person who will reside in the assisted living community. This assessment is called a Level of Care Assessment. It covers physical and mental abilities with the total score determining what level of assisted living is needed. In addition, the provider will request a physician's report to confirm a prospective resident's health status. A Level of Care Assessment is conducted regularly with the resident because needs are likely to change as a person becomes more or less able to care for him/herself. While the fees are not negotiable in most instances, some of the services provided may be covered under Medicare. The assisted living community to which one applies will be able to assist a prospective resident in determining whether Medicare covers any services.
