Mom had a meeting with Dad's therapists and caseworker this morning at Katy Rehabilitation. They all agreed that Dad has made slow but steady progress and that they were going to submit a request to Blue Cross/Blue Shield today to extend his discharge date to Friday, January 9th. Kelley told Mom she would do whatever she could to relay to the insurance company that Dad really needed the extra time to build on the strength and skill he has acquired so far, but as of 5 p.m., Katy Rehab was still waiting for their decision. Just in case they would not approve the extra time, Linda (the caseworker) had the names of several skilled nursing centers listed under the Blue Cross/Blue Shield plan where Dad might be able to stay for a few additional weeks. The problem is that none of them are in Katy, and the facility that the therapists recommend in Katy, won't accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Mom is very frustrated because Dad is covered under Medicare as well, and she just doesn't understand why Medicare won't kick in if Blue Cross/Blue Shield denies further benefits at the Rehab or at a skilled nursing center. Carol Humphrey (Mom's "Christmas Elf" turned "Angel") has been working the phones for her all afternoon trying to find other options as well as price daytime caregivers, because Mom also learned that any help Dad needs while she is at work, will have to be paid for out-of-pocket ... neither insurance covers that need either. We're not so sure paying monthly premiums to two insurance companies is worth it since you still don't receive what you need from them. So, after living this nightmare first hand, we all agree that government really does need to revamp the healthcare system!
On a brighter note, I attended Dad's afternoon therapy session with Rochelle & Laurie(Occupational Therapists). Rochelle was showing me how Dad can now open and close his right hand doing a repetitive motion. That was great to see and it was also so nice to see Dad and his therapists laughing and having a good time in between exercises. I think it is so important that Dad really likes his therapists...they have all been so good to Dad and I know that he appreciates all of their patience and all of the hard work they've devoted towards getting him stronger every day. Thank you so much :)
Before I left this afternoon, Dad's PT Kelley, came in and I practiced transerring Dad (with assistance of course) and Dad did most of the work...I was merely there for support/helping him to balance. He did a very good job standing up from his wheel chair to his walker and then getting into bed. Dad also had another wheel chair race today with Mr. Garza (Dad's buddy and next door neighbor at Katy Rehabilitation) and managed to beat him down the hall! It was really good to see Dad having fun!
Stayed tuned for any breaking news on Dad's discharge!!
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