Lakewood group launches online tool for caregivers

Most people never think about Medicaid until they have an elder family member in need of long-term healthcare, and Medicare benefits are on schedule to run out. For many senior individuals in this situation, Medicaid is a practical solution.

NavigAid is an easy-to-navigate online tool that guides a caregiver through the Medicaid application process, making it easier, faster and less stressful to file for Medicaid benefits that cover the costs of long-term skilled nursing care, either at home or in assisted living or a skilled nursing residential facility.

Until now, applying for Medicaid has been a daunting task, as caregivers struggle to navigate a complicated, involved and incredibly stressful process of understanding state-specific Medicaid application requirements.

"NavigAid helps assure that a Medicaid application is complete and correct, which is not always the case for first-time filers. An improperly submitted application can result in delay or denial of coverage, which triggers tremendous anxiety for a family running through their savings to pay ongoing medical expenses," says NavigAid Founder Ben Mandelbaum. Mandelbaum, recognizing the need to make Medicaid more accessible to all who qualify, launched NavigAid with executive management colleagues at Senior Planning Services (SPS) in Lakewood. NavigAid's intuitive proprietary software customizes the application process based on the patient's state of residence, with the goal of reducing turnaround time for determination of benefits. This means you can spend less time on paperwork and more time on the person you love.

NavigAid launched in New Jersey and five other Northeast states in October 2021, and is expected to expand nationwide over the next two years. NavigAid does not provide legal advice or services. www.mynavigaid.com.