State Medicaid offices target dead people’s homes to recoup their health care costs

The Medicaid estate recovery program, designed to recoup expenses from deceased Medicaid recipients, faces scrutiny due to its impact on families and limited returns. States employ varying approaches, with some aggressively pursuing assets like homes. Criticism mounts over lack of transparency, leaving families unaware of potential claims until after a loved one's death. Cases like Sandy LoGrande's in Massachusetts and Imani Mfalme's in Tennessee highlight the program's harsh consequences, as families face hefty bills and risk losing cherished homes.

Efforts to reform the system gain traction, with proposals to make estate recovery optional at the federal level. However, bipartisan support remains elusive in Congress. Critics argue the program's intent to encourage long-term care planning often fails in practice, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Even its architect, Stephen Moses, acknowledges its shortcomings, noting the need for better public awareness and revised policies.

As lawmakers and advocates push for change, the debate underscores broader issues of healthcare accessibility and financial security for aging Americans. The current system's complexities and disparities compel a reevaluation of its effectiveness and fairness, particularly in safeguarding the legacies and assets of those who relied on Medicaid in their final years.