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PACE—Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
By Michelle Lonsinger
Overview
PACE is a Medicare program that provides community-based care and services to older adults who would otherwise need the level of long-term care provided by a nursing home. PACE allows participants to continue living in their communities, and provides a team of professionals with the expertise needed to understand the needs of older people.
PACE provides all of the services covered by Medicare Parts A, B, and D, including hospital visits, doctor care, and prescription drugs, transportation, home care, preventative check-ups, and nursing home stays if they’re needed. The program works with care recipients and caregivers to develop an effective plan of care and support.
PACE Services
The services provided by PACE include the following:
- Primary care, such as doctor visits and nursing
- Hospital and nursing home care as needed
- Emergency services
- Laboratory and X-ray services
- Medical specialists such as audiologists, dentists, optometrists, podiatrists, and speech therapists
- Prescription drug coverage
- Preventive care
- Home care
- Physical, occupational, and recreational therapy
- Social Services and Social Work counseling
- Adult Day Care
- Meals and nutritional counseling
- Transportation to medical appointments and a day health center
- Caregiver training and support groups
- Respite care
Who is eligible for PACE?
To join PACE, you must meet the following qualifications:
- Be 55 years or older
- Live within the service area of a PACE provider (in 2008, there were 61 PACE programs operating in 29 states, and the program continues to expand)
- Be certified as requiring the level of care provided by a nursing home
- Be able to live safely in your community with the assistance of PACE
How much does PACE cost?
If a participant qualifies for Medicare, all Medicare-covered expenses are paid for by Medicare. PACE participants never pay a deductible or copayment for approved services or care, although there is a monthly premium to cover long-term care and prescription drug coverage. The amount of the monthly premium will vary based on the local PACE program.
There are state-run programs to assist those with limited income and resources in paying for Medicare and PACE. For details, see the publication “Medicare and You,” available at http://www.medicare.gov.
Where can I learn more about PACE?
The National PACE Association is the best resource for information on PACE and its programs. They are online at http://www.npaonline.org, or can be reached by phone at 703-535-1565.
Michelle Lonsinger is a freelance researcher, technical writer, and editor.
Copyright © 2008 by Michelle Lonsinger