Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

At Real Care, the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a complete healthcare model designed to help seniors aged 55 and older stay in their communities while receiving comprehensive medical and social care. This program caters to seniors with complex medical needs, offering a blend of medical services, personal care, social interaction, and rehabilitation through a dedicated team of healthcare professionals. PACE allows participants to receive all services, from doctor visits to social outings, under one coordinated care plan, promoting independence and safety in a familiar environment.

What is PACE?

PACE is a holistic care program designed to help seniors maintain their independence while living safely in their community. Real Care offers participants access to a fully integrated care team, ensuring all aspects of health are managed effectively and compassionately. Services include primary care, specialty care, social activities, transportation, and rehabilitation. Every element of care is personalized based on individual needs, helping participants avoid nursing home placement as long as possible.

Who is Eligible for PACE?

To qualify for PACE, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Be 55 years of age or older.
• Require a level of care that is typically provided in a nursing home.
• Be able to live safely in the community with support from the PACE program.
• Live in a designated service area covered by Real Care’s PACE program.

Core Benefits of PACE at Real Care

1. Comprehensive Healthcare: PACE provides access to all medical care through its interdisciplinary team. Services include primary care, hospital visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care, all coordinated through one central source, reducing the complexity of managing multiple healthcare providers.
2. Prescription Drug Coverage: The PACE program covers all necessary prescription and over-the-counter medications as determined by the care team. This eliminates out-of-pocket costs for participants, simplifying the management of medications.
3. Day Centers and Socialization: PACE includes regular visits to day health centers where participants can engage in social activities, receive therapy, and interact with peers. This reduces isolation and ensures emotional and social needs are met, helping improve mental health.
4. Rehabilitation and Therapy: Whether recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions, participants benefit from physical, occupational, and speech therapy tailored to their needs. PACE helps restore independence and functionality, promoting recovery in a familiar environment.
5. Personalized Care Plans: Each PACE participant receives a customized care plan tailored to their health conditions, preferences, and lifestyle. This care plan is developed and regularly reviewed by the interdisciplinary team, ensuring adjustments are made as needs evolve.
6. Transportation Services: Real Care’s PACE program includes transportation to and from medical appointments, the day health center, and other necessary outings. This ensures participants have reliable, safe transportation without the worry of managing logistics on their own.
7. Support for Caregivers: Real Care offers family members and caregivers valuable support through counseling, respite care, and educational resources. PACE reduces the emotional and physical toll of caregiving by providing expert, round-the-clock care for loved ones.
8. Transition to Nursing Home Care: While the goal of PACE is to keep participants in their communities as long as possible, there may come a time when nursing home care is necessary. If that happens, Real Care continues to manage and pay for the care provided in the nursing home, ensuring continuity of care.

How to Enroll in Real Care’s PACE Program

1. Check Availability: Verify if Real Care’s PACE services are available in your area.
2. Schedule a Home Visit: Real Care’s representatives will visit you and your caregiver at home to explain the program, answer questions, and discuss care options.
3. Tour the PACE Facility: You and your family are encouraged to tour Real Care’s PACE day centers and facilities to see the services and meet the care team.
4. Medical and Social Assessment: After the tour, Real Care will schedule a comprehensive medical and social assessment to create a personalized care plan.

Cost and Payment Options

PACE is available to both Medicaid-eligible and non-Medicaid individuals. Medicaid beneficiaries typically receive services at little or no cost. Those who don’t qualify for Medicaid will pay a premium for the care that Medicaid would otherwise cover. The PACE program simplifies the financial process by consolidating costs, and Real Care’s team will help determine eligibility for Medicaid and other financial assistance options.

Leaving the PACE Program

Participants are free to disenroll from the PACE program at any time and return to receiving services through Medicare, Medicaid, or private health insurance plans. This flexibility allows families to explore other care options if their needs or preferences change.

Why Choose Real Care’s PACE Program?

Real Care’s PACE program is designed to give participants and their families peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of care is handled by a dedicated and experienced team. By providing an all-inclusive, coordinated care model, Real Care helps seniors stay independent, connected, and safe within their communities. Families can enjoy more quality time with their loved ones, free from the stress and burden of full-time caregiving.By choosing Real Care’s PACE program, you’re ensuring the best quality of life for your loved one, with all-inclusive, compassionate care tailored to meet their needs.