Productive and Rewarding SB Visit: May 19-27, 2017

I visited my dad in SB from May 19-27, and saw him make much progress doing physical and occupational therapy at Mission Terrace.

On June 1, 2017, I spoke with Giselle Landell, the social worker at Mission Terrace, who informed me that Bill continues to benefit from PT and OT, and Dr. Omelid estimates a possible discharge timing of late next week (around June 9th).

Giselle will keep me apprised of further updates on timing and progress.

In the mean time, Bill has been approved for Medi-Cal insurance, which, as of May 1, 2017, will retroactively cover all of his medical expenses, including Cottage Hospital and Mission Terrace, 100%.

Jennifer Alvarez, the social worker assigned to Bill's case at SB County Social Services, has said that Medi-Cal sent a letter to Bill on May 26th confirming insurance coverage, which should be sent to Bill's home this week. Brian Bailey has agreed to retrieve the letter and produce a copy for Mission Terrace so that they can coordinate with Billing.

MT will also coordinate Bill's next steps -- receiving in-home support -- with IHSS, a div. of Medi-Cal (I think).  I understand that Medi-Cal will cover 4 hours a day of in-home support, which may include (or cover additionally) physical therapy in the home.

Bill is in good spirits, is healthier than ever, and is making physical progress. He looks forward to going home!

I miss him terribly and try to talk to him a few times a week on the phone. I wish I could drop everything and move to SB to be with him during this transition!

While I was in SB from May 19-27, 2017, I accomplished the following:

1. Had Bill sign a Durable Power of Attorney under the direction of lawyer Erin R. Park, recommended by Cindy Brokaw. Brian B is assigned as a co-agent of Bill, along with me.
2. Submitted the requisite financial documents (bank statements, letter) to Santa Barbara County Social Services to ensure that Bill qualifies for Medi-Cal. On May 26th, I got a call from the kind social worker assigned to his case, Jennifer Alvarez, confirming that he is approved to receive 100% Medi-Cal coverage retroactive to May 1, 2017. (This was the best news ever!!!)
3. At VA Clinic in SB, secured remaining medical records (2016) and Part C completed by VA, and sent package to VA Home Yountville for housing app to be complete. Thanks, Lupe!
4. Confirmed continued monthly support through WF.
5. Went to Union Bank with POA and signed up as co-account holder.
6. Visited with Bill a lot, had some great talks about mortality, marriage, faith, regret, etc. It was serious quality time!
7. Confirmed with Colin Mak, Walpole, that I would handle monthly El Zoco fees of $315 on Bill's behalf.
8. Dined and/or with Wendy F, Gretchen W, Lara E., Brian and Cindy, and Linda Trujillo.

I had wanted to meet with Sue Irwin about real estate plans, but was too busy. Not urgent; next time.

On the home (Oakland) front, I continue to look casually at assisted living facilities as possible housing for Bill in near future.

Mercy Retirement and Care Center sounds like a good possibility. It's in Fruitvale and Danny Vasquez is contact. (He called me while I was driving to SB and was the most pleasant sales rep of any elder living home I had dealt with to date.) The place costs about $3K/month.