Navigating insurance/public aid

[kctwinmommy]

We just took the first step in getting our home health care set up. Of course, she just got the trach on Friday, then it was the weekend, so they don't have a lot of info yet. I did talk to the woman at DCSS today though, they're the group that handles these cases. So she's getting what she can started. But she did tell me that it can take quite some time to get it all approved and set up. She also said it will depend on what our insurance will cover first.

I just didn't quite understand that we need to apply for Public Aid. I guess this is just odd to me. I mean, am I applying for it on behalf of my child? Since DH works full-time, makes decent money, I know we'd never qualify for any assistance programs normally. But I'm assuming that this is a different type of aid.

I just have this feeling that it's going to get overwhelming with all this. Trying to set it all up, finding what we want, filing out forms, and then of course, having nurses in my home.

Any advice or tips on the best way to go through all of this? We're in IL, Chicago area, in case it makes a difference. TIA!