
Sudden changes to a loved one’s health can throw everyone for a loop. Navigating the rules of Medicare and Medicaid for Senior Care is confusing, but you do not have to do it alone. Maple Leaf Health Care Center is here to simplify the system for families in Manchester and the surrounding communities.
Here’s what you need to know…
Medicare, Medicaid & Senior Care
Medicare provides coverage for a stay in a skilled nursing facility, but this coverage is limited to short term recovery. To qualify, your loved one must have a medically necessary inpatient hospital stay of at least three consecutive days. This does not include time spent under observation status in the emergency room.
Once qualified, Medicare covers all of the costs for the first 20 days of care. From day 21 through day 100, the patient is responsible for a daily coinsurance payment. Medicare coverage ends after 100 days in a benefit period. This insurance is intended for rehabilitation and medical stabilization, not for long term residency.
Does Medicaid Cover Long-Term Care?
Medicaid is the primary payer for long term nursing home benefits in New Hampshire. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid is an assistance program based on financial need. It covers the cost of room, board, and clinical services for those who require permanent placement. New Hampshire Medicaid nursing home benefits are essential for residents who have exhausted their Medicare days or no longer require daily skilled therapy.
Eligibility for Medicaid in Manchester, New Hampshire involves strict asset and income limits. As of 2025, most applicants cannot have more than $2,500 in countable assets. The state also enforces a five year look back period to review financial transfers. While these rules are complex, Medicaid provides a vital safety net for families who cannot afford the full out of pocket nursing home costs in Manchester, NH.

The Difference Between Medicare And Medicaid For Nursing Homes
The fundamental difference between Medicare and Medicaid is the goal of senior care. Medicare pays for short term rehab following an acute medical event like a stroke or surgery. It focuses on getting the patient strong enough to return home. Once a patient reaches a plateau in their recovery or hits the 100 day limit, Medicare payments stop.
Medicaid is designed for long term custodial care. This includes help with bathing, dressing, and 24 hour supervision. Many residents at Maple Leaf Health Care Center begin their stay under Medicare coverage for initial rehabilitation and then transition to Medicaid if they require permanent care. Understanding when one ends and the other begins is vital for financial planning.
Not sure which coverage applies to your situation? Contact our admissions team to verify your benefits today.
Navigating Coverage At Maple Leaf Health Care Center In Manchester
Maple Leaf Health Care Center is a Medicaid certified and Medicare participating facility. We understand that you are under immense pressure to make the right choice for your mother or spouse. Our admissions coordinators specialize in skilled nursing insurance coverage and the New Hampshire Medicaid application process.
When you choose our facility, we handle the heavy lifting regarding insurance verification. We work with your providers to ensure all clinical documentation is in place. Our goal is to let you focus on being a supportive daughter or spouse while we manage the paperwork. We serve families from Manchester, Bedford, Hooksett, and beyond, providing a knowledgeable guide through every step of the payment process.
Comprehensive Care Services
Our facility provides Worcester residents with complete senior care services, including professional medical management, specialized rehabilitation programs, and personalized care plans. We offer engaging social activities, memory care services, and full therapy services, all delivered by our skilled nursing team.
Family-Centered Approach
We believe in making interstate caregiving manageable and reassuring. Our team coordinates with Worcester healthcare providers, offers video conferencing for care planning meetings, and provides regular progress updates through your preferred communication method. For families needing to stay overnight, we can recommend comfortable local accommodations.
Ready to Learn More?
Let us show you why Worcester families choose Maple Leaf Health Care Center for their loved ones. Contact us today at (603) 669-1660 to schedule a tour or learn more about our services for Worcester residents. Discover how we can provide the exceptional care your loved one deserves within a reasonable drive from Central Massachusetts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover long-term nursing home care?
No, Medicare does not cover long term custodial care. It pays for short term skilled nursing following a qualifying hospital stay.
How long will Medicare pay for skilled nursing?
Medicare covers a maximum of 100 days per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full, and days 21 through 100 require a daily coinsurance.
What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid for nursing homes?
Medicare is for short term medical recovery. Medicaid is a need based program that covers long term residency for those who meet financial criteria.
Does Maple Leaf Health Care Center accept Medicaid in Manchester, NH?
Yes, we are a Medicaid certified facility and work with families to manage the transition from private pay or Medicare to Medicaid.
What happens when Medicare’s 100 days run out?
Once Medicare days are exhausted, the resident must pay out of pocket, use long term care insurance, or apply for Medicaid if they meet state eligibility requirements.
How do I know if my loved one qualifies for Medicaid nursing home coverage?
Qualifying requires both a medical need for a nursing home level of care and meeting the New Hampshire financial limits for income and assets.
Can I use Medicare and Medicaid together for nursing home care?
Yes, for those who are “dual eligible,” Medicaid may cover the Medicare coinsurance costs during the first 100 days.
What does Medicare Part A cover in a skilled nursing facility?
It covers a semi-private room, meals, skilled nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, and medications related to the condition treated in the hospital.
Contact Us
For more information about our therapy services or to schedule a tour of our facility, please contact us:
Maple Leaf Health Care Center
198 Pearl St., Manchester, NH 03104
Phone: 603-669-1660
