PACE Expanded Act

The PACE Expanded Act (HR 6590) expands access to the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) by allowing seniors to enroll at any time during the month - rather than only at month-start - while requiring prorated payments for mid-month enrollments. It also permits PACE providers to submit applications for new service areas or centers anytime, with applications deemed approved after 45 days unless denied. The bill establishes a pilot program to test expanded eligibility for high-need populations not currently covered by PACE, requiring providers to partner with community organizations and adapt care models. It mandates an evaluation of PACE’s effectiveness in rural areas, focusing on reduced hospitalizations, costs, and improved health outcomes for beneficiaries. These changes aim to make PACE more flexible for seniors, providers, and states, with key provisions effective January 2025.