# Plain Language Summary: PACE Expanded Act

The PACE Expanded Act makes it easier for older adults to join and stay in a healthcare program called PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly). PACE is designed for seniors who are frail, have multiple health conditions, or need significant care support. Instead of bouncing between different doctors and hospitals, PACE enrollees get coordinated care from one team that handles medical care, social services, and support all in one place.

Right now, people can only sign up for PACE during certain times of the year, similar to how Medicare enrollment works. This bill removes that restriction starting January 2025, allowing seniors to enroll in PACE any month of the year whenever they need it. If someone signs up mid-month, their first payment will be adjusted to reflect only the days they're actually enrolled, rather than charging for a full month. For people on both Medicare and Medicaid (called "dual eligible"), states can choose whether to allow year-round enrollment. This change matters because it means seniors who suddenly need more care support won't have to wait months for the next enrollment period.

The bill also speeds up the process for PACE organizations to expand their services and open new locations. Currently, approval can take a long time. Under this bill, applications are automatically approved within 45 days unless the government specifically denies them or asks for more information. This helps PACE programs grow to serve more people in their communities. Additionally, the bill creates a pilot program allowing PACE organizations to serve people who don't currently qualify for PACE—like younger people with disabilities or other high-need populations—to test whether expanding PACE's reach could help more vulnerable people get better coordinated care.

The legislation also requires the government to study how well PACE works in rural and underserved areas, looking at whether it reduces hospitalizations, emergency room visits, nursing home use, and overall healthcare costs. Within five years, Congress will receive a report on these findings to help decide whether PACE should be expanded further.

PACE Expanded Act

Dingell, Debbie

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly Expanded Act or the PACE Expanded Act This bill modifies requirements regarding Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE is a program under Medicare and Medicaid that provides in-home and community services for certain individuals as an alternative to nursing home care. The bill allows Medicare beneficiaries to enroll in a PACE program at any time and provides states with the option to allow Medicaid beneficiaries to do the same. Entities may also apply to become PACE providers at any time, upon specified assurances relating to staffing and other requirements. The bill also (1) allows the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation to test a model for expanded PACE eligibility that targets high-need and high-cost populations, and (2) requires an evaluation of the effectiveness of PACE in rural and underserved areas.