How to Navigate Medicaid & Homecare Without the Headache

Planning for long-term care isn’t easy. Families are often caught between rising care costs, confusing Medicaid rules, and the pressure to make big financial decisions—fast. iguring out how to pay for care at home, understanding what Medicaid actually covers, and the system can feel overwhelming.

One mistake, one missed deadline, and families could lose out on the support they need.

That’s why we reached out to Guy Michaud Jr., MBA—a licensed healthcare and home care expert with more than 20 years in managed care. As someone who’s worked closely with families, providers, and Medicaid systems, Guy understands the real struggles behind the paperwork.

We spoke with him about what families need to know, what mistakes to avoid, and how caregivers can stay one step ahead.

Q. What first brought you into healthcare—and what’s kept you going for over 20 years? Can you share a story that reminded you why this work matters?

Over 25 years ago, someone suggested I apply for a job in healthcare. I gave it a shot—and never looked back. What keeps me here is simple: helping people. Every day, I get to make someone’s life easier, and that’s what drives me.

I’ll never forget one woman I worked with—she was very sick and only spoke Creole. No one could communicate with her. I stepped in to translate and help her understand her care plan. That experience stuck with me. In another case, we were the only support system a patient had. He needed groceries and errands done, so we stepped in to help. It’s these moments that remind me this work isn’t just clinical—it’s personal.

Q. For families starting to plan long-term care or manage Medicaid, what’s one thing they should know? What mistakes do people often make?

The biggest mistake people make is trying to figure everything out on their own. Medicaid and long-term care rules are complex. If you miss a step, it can cost you benefits or time. That’s why I always tell families: talk to a professional who knows this space. You don’t have to do it alone.

Also, don’t wait until it’s urgent. Planning early gives you more choices and less stress. Even if you feel like you’re in a good spot now, it helps to understand what support is available if things change.

Q. What does your day-to-day work look like? And how do you see digital tools or AI helping make care easier or faster?

My days are never the same. I might visit assisted living facilities, check in with providers, or attend events where families are looking for help. It’s a mix of building relationships, solving problems, and making sure people get what they need.

When it comes to tech, I think AI and digital tools will help catch problems earlier and speed up slow systems. Whether it’s authorizing care or flagging issues in a care plan, these tools can help providers respond faster—and give families peace of mind.

Q. What changes do you see coming in long-term or managed care? And what advice would you give caregivers who feel overwhelmed by the cost or complexity?

We’re heading toward simpler processes. That means fewer delays, easier authorizations, and hopefully, more transparency. But even with these improvements, care planning is still tough—especially for family caregivers.

My advice? Educate yourself. Learn what programs, resources, and financial tools are out there. And again, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether you’re dealing with Medicaid, retirement planning, or extended care costs, the right support can save you a lot of stress—and sometimes, a lot of money too.

Wrapping Up

As Guy Michaud Jr. mentioned, planning ahead makes all the difference. Too many families wait until there’s a crisis, and by then, their options are limited. Medicaid can help, but it’s not simple—and small mistakes can cost a lot. The best thing you can do is ask for help early. Talk to someone who understands the system, get your documents in order, and start planning before you need it. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about making sure your family is cared for the right way.

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Get to Know the Expert Better

Guy Michaud Jr

Guy Michaud Jr. is a licensed healthcare and home care professional with more than 20 years of experience in managed care. He specializes in helping families navigate Medicaid planning, retirement strategies, extended care costs, and provider coordination. A U.S. veteran with an MBA, Guy brings practical insight and real compassion to every conversation. His goal is simple: to make complex care planning easier for families who just want to do right by their loved ones.