Medicare/Medi-Cal IHSS How long doe it take for process?

This time frame is likely not unusual, though I don't know about California specifically. Any time you deal with several government/state agencies you will end up waiting. All you can do is keep bugging them. If it gets far too long, you can check with your Congress person, but I'd try to go other routes first. This is a long time for you to wait, but for this type of situation, it's not uncommon, especially with the cuts.

Take care and good luck,
Carol

I would call the person who you talked to initially if they haven't changed posiions yet, rhat happens alot here and sometimes the ball gets dropped you just seem to have to do everyone's job for them. LOL any way I would call the same office and explain this to them and maybe they can give yu an answer and hopefully get started. Good luck

Hi - just wanted to let you guys know that my mom's Medi-Medi case was approved! A social worker is now coming out to do a medical assessment. You were both right about staying on top of things with calls and reminders. It works. Now I hope we can get some financial help to offset the caregiver's cost. Anything will help. My mom requires 24 hour care and I prefer to take care of here at home with us. Any red flags that I need to be aware of?
thanks for your help AgingCare --- I never would have gotten this far in the process without your helpful recommendations.
Sincerely,
Yolanda

Thats wonderful yes you have to keep at it no once it is approved things should run smoothly each state is different the only thing we have to do is go in once a year for an update most of the time things stay the same unless there is a change in your moms condition .

We have had the same Caregiver for the past 3 years and are paying under the table so-to-speak. I have been through hell with agencies and their caregiver personnel as described in the article, charging me up to $21.00 an hour! They were so flakey also sometimes not showing up. I cannot prove it but I think one of their personnel stole some of my mother's jewelry...wasn't expensive but sentimental items.
We were so lucky to find this Caregiver who is like family. I don't want to lose her, she knows my mom's habits and issues and never complains. I see the tax ramifications and the potential for injury issues as we have to lift my mom sometimes which is causing me some back and neck issues. Should I consult with an Elder Attorney? I also don't want to cause our Caregiver any tax issues.
thanks again,
Yolanda

I would speak to your care giver first and discuss these concerns than I would go to the doctor

I am happy that this issue is resolved for you, Yolanda. I am in the same waiting position. My mom is also 91 and in need of 24 hour care. Her finances are limited as are mmine and my siblings. I applied for IHSS and they took the application. It was sent tot Medi-Cal where it was apparently lost. When the problem was identified, a Medi-Cal rrep came to the house and completed the application. She will know send it to IHSS. We know that mom's income will require a "Share of Cost". It is very frustrating to want to be with her, but unable. I have beat the bushes trying to get find help for her but it is difficult without financial resources and or aid.
I for one hope that the Obama administration et al will consider our seniors when they are writing their health plan. It is absurd to think that if you are a Senior, aged and without money, you are Stuck. And for a family member who cares, but can't it is a consatnt source of saddness and frustration.
I would appreciate it if you would tell us the final outcome of your applications. Will you tell us what help you were given, how many hours etc...and thank you Yolanda for writing, for loving your mom as I do mine, and for your inexhaustable effort to insure her safety and care. I appreciate you.