The Field Guide

Observation status vs. inpatient under Medicare
Observation Status vs. Inpatient: Why It Matters Under Medicare
A parent can spend three nights in a hospital bed and still not count as admitted. Here is why observation status matters for rehab coverage, the notices you should get,... Read more...
What to put in an emergency binder for an aging parent
What to Put in an Emergency Binder for an Aging Parent
The ER nurse will ask for a medication list, allergies, doctors and whether there is an advance directive. Here is exactly what to keep in one binder, in the order... Read more...
How to appeal a hospital discharge under Medicare
How to Appeal a Hospital Discharge Under Medicare
If you believe a parent is being discharged too soon, Medicare gives you the right to a free, fast review. Here is who to call, the deadline, and what happens... Read more...
What Medicare covers at home
What Medicare Actually Covers at Home
Grab bars are not covered. A hospital bed usually is. Here is the line Medicare draws, and the three programs that pay for what it will not. Read more...
22 questions to ask before a hospital discharge
22 Questions to Ask Before a Hospital Discharge
Discharge conversations move fast and happen once. These are the questions that prevent a readmission, grouped by who to ask. Read more...
12-point home safety walk-through for seniors
The 12-Point Home Safety Walk-Through
Walk your parent's house the way a physical therapist would. Twelve things to check, in the order they cause falls, and what each fix costs. Read more...