The PACE program is designed to enable seniors who need a nursing home level of care to instead remain at home or in a community-based setting, by providing more flexibility than traditional fee-for-service Medicare and Medicaid rules allow. Under PACE, rather than entering an institution, a beneficiary can receive coordinated care through an interdisciplinary team of providers. There currently are 114 PACE programs in 32 states.
The PACE Innovation Act of 2015—introduced Tuesday in the House—would allow certain individuals who are younger than 55 to participate in the program, as well as other groups who are deemed likely to benefit from taking part.
“The PACE program continues to be a comprehensive, provider-based health plan with a proven track record of high quality care for seniors while enabling them to live independently at home,” said co-sponsor Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.). “PACE significantly boosts the quality of life for the seniors it currently serves and my legislation would broaden eligibility so more individuals can get the help they need—at a time it could be even more beneficial.”