PACE: Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly

Q: How does the PACE: Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly work?

PACE provides comprehensive, coordinated healthcare services for eligible seniors who need nursing home-level care but want to remain living in their community. An interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals works together to create a personalized care plan that meets all your medical, social, and daily living needs in one integrated program.

Q: Who is eligible for the PACE program?

To qualify for PACE, you must be 55 years or older, live in a PACE service area, be certified by your state as needing nursing home-level care, and be able to live safely in the community with PACE services. You can have Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance, and PACE accepts participants regardless of their ability to pay.

Q: What services are included in the PACE program?

PACE provides all Medicare and Medicaid covered services including primary care, specialty care, prescription drugs, hospital care, nursing home care when needed, home care, adult day health services, medical transportation, social services, nutritional counseling, and recreational therapy - all coordinated through one program.

Q: How much does the PACE program cost?

If you have Medicare and Medicaid, there is no cost to you for PACE services. If you only have Medicare, you'll pay a monthly premium for long-term care services equivalent to the Medicaid payment. Private pay options are also available for those who don't qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.

Q: Which states offer PACE programs?

PACE programs are available in 31 states including Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Q: What is the difference between PACE and traditional Medicare or nursing home care?

Unlike traditional Medicare which provides fragmented care through multiple providers, PACE offers fully integrated care through one interdisciplinary team. Instead of nursing home placement, PACE allows you to receive comprehensive care while remaining in your own home and community, maintaining your independence and quality of life.

Q: How do I find and apply for a PACE program near me?

You can find PACE programs in your area by visiting the National PACE Association website or contacting your local Area Agency on Aging. Each state has specific PACE locations, and you can apply directly through the PACE organization in your area. The application process includes an assessment to determine eligibility and care needs.

Q: Can I keep my current doctors if I join PACE?

When you enroll in PACE, you'll receive care from the PACE interdisciplinary team, which may mean changing from your current doctors. However, PACE teams include primary care physicians, specialists, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals who will coordinate all aspects of your care to ensure continuity and comprehensive treatment.