A Step-by-Step Guide to the Colorado PACE Enrollment Process
Colorado PACE
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Jul 24, 2025
Colorado - Denver Metro
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Navigating healthcare options for aging loved ones can be overwhelming, but Colorado PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) offers a streamlined and supportive solution. This unique program provides comprehensive medical, social, and long-term care services to help older adults live independently while receiving the care they need. Understanding the Colorado PACE enrollment process is the first step toward accessing personalized, high-quality care for seniors.
In this editorial, we’ll walk through the Colorado PACE enrollment process step-by-step, so you or your loved one can make an informed, confident decision about aging in place with the support of an experienced care team.
What Is Colorado PACE?
Before diving into the enrollment details, it's essential to understand what PACE is. PACE is a Medicare and Medicaid program that serves adults aged 55 and older who meet a nursing home level of care but prefer to live independently at home. Colorado PACE programs are designed to provide holistic, wrap-around services through interdisciplinary care teams. These teams coordinate everything from primary care and therapy to social services and transportation.
There are several PACE organizations in Colorado, including Rocky Mountain PACE, InnovAge, and TRU PACE, each serving specific counties and regions.
Who Is Eligible for Colorado PACE?
To enroll in Colorado PACE, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Be at least 55 years old
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Live in a PACE-covered service area in Colorado
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Meet the state’s nursing home level of care requirement
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Be able to live safely in the community at the time of enrollment
Eligibility is determined through both financial and medical assessments. Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado) or Medicare may cover the cost, depending on your income and insurance status.
The Colorado PACE Enrollment Process
Enrolling in PACE in Colorado typically involves five clear steps:
1. Initial Inquiry and Contact
The process begins with a phone call or online form submission to your local PACE provider. Families can contact the enrollment office directly or be referred by a primary care provider, hospital, social worker, or family member.
During this step, a PACE representative will gather basic information and explain the services offered. They may also check whether you live in a serviceable ZIP code or region.
2. Home Visit or Informational Meeting
After confirming basic eligibility, a PACE outreach coordinator will schedule an informational home visit or in-person meeting at the local PACE center. This visit includes a detailed overview of the program, the services provided, and how care coordination works. Family members or caregivers are encouraged to participate.
This step is a great opportunity to ask questions and explore how Colorado PACE supports independent living with dignity.
3. Comprehensive Assessment
The next step in the PACE enrollment process is a multi-disciplinary medical and social assessment. During this evaluation, you or your loved one will meet with the PACE team—usually including a primary care provider, nurse, social worker, and therapist.
This assessment helps determine whether the individual meets the state’s nursing home level of care criteria. The team will also evaluate the senior’s medical history, cognitive ability, mobility, social needs, and safety at home.
4. State-Level Approval
After the comprehensive assessment, the PACE provider submits the findings to the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF). The state reviews the documentation to verify nursing home level of care eligibility.
This step typically takes 7 to 14 days. If the applicant qualifies, they receive approval to enroll in PACE. If not, the applicant will be notified and offered assistance with alternative options.
5. Enrollment and First Day of Services
Once approved, the final step is signing the enrollment agreement. PACE coverage officially begins on the first day of the following month. From that point on, the participant receives care exclusively through PACE providers.
Each enrollee is assigned a personal care team that develops a customized care plan. Services may include:
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Primary and specialty care
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Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
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Prescription drug coverage
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Transportation to medical appointments
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Adult day services
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Meals and nutrition support
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In-home care and personal assistance
Why Enroll in Colorado PACE?
Enrolling in Colorado PACE is more than just signing up for healthcare—it’s joining a supportive community. With coordinated care, 24/7 medical oversight, and social engagement, participants experience improved quality of life and reduced hospital visits. For families, PACE offers peace of mind and relief from the complexity of managing senior care.
PACE programs in Colorado are known for their person-centered approach and consistent care teams that get to know each participant personally.
Start Your Colorado PACE Enrollment Journey Today
The Colorado PACE enrollment process is designed to be informative, thorough, and supportive. Whether you're a senior exploring long-term care options or a caregiver seeking help, Colorado’s PACE providers are ready to guide you every step of the way.
To find out if you or your loved one is eligible, contact www.coloradopace.org to learn more.
Optimize your future with the right care—PACE makes aging in place safe, manageable, and empowering.
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Colorado PACE
PACE 13650 East Mississippi Avenue, Aurora, Colorado, 80012Colorado PACE: Comprehensive Senior Healthcare Services for Independent LivingColorado PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is a non-profit senior healthcare organization dedicated to helping nursing home-eligible seniors maintain their independence and live safely in their homes and communities for as long as possible. By offering a full range of coordinated healthcare and supportive services, Colorado PACE ensures that seniors receive the personalized care they need to enhance their quality of life and avoid unnecessary institutionalization.What is PACE?PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is a nationally recognized healthcare model that provides comprehensive medical and social services to seniors who qualify for nursing home care but prefer to remain in their homes. Colorado PACE follows this model, delivering high-quality, individualized care through an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who coordinate all aspects of a seniors health and wellness.Who is Eligible for Colorado PACE?To participate in Colorado PACE, seniors must meet the following criteria:Be 55 years of age or olderQualify for nursing home-level careBe able to live safely in the community with PACE servicesReside within a Colorado PACE service areaBy meeting these requirements, seniors gain access to an array of vital services designed to help them age in place with dignity and independence.Comprehensive PACE ServicesColorado PACE provides a full spectrum of healthcare and supportive services, addressing both medical and social needs. The program covers the following essential services:1. Primary and Specialty Medical CareRegular check-ups and preventive careSpecialized care for chronic conditions24/7 access to medical professionalsPersonalized care plans tailored to individual health needs2. Home Care ServicesSkilled nursing care at homeAssistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)Medication management and administrationHomemaker services, such as light housekeeping and meal preparation3. Adult Day ServicesSocial and recreational activities to promote engagementSupervised care in a safe and stimulating environmentTherapy and wellness programs to enhance mobility and cognitive function4. Prescription MedicationsFull coverage for prescribed medicationsMedication management to ensure adherence and safety5. Rehabilitation TherapiesPhysical therapy to improve strength and mobilityOccupational therapy to enhance daily functioningSpeech therapy for communication and swallowing disorders6. Transportation AssistanceReliable transportation to medical appointments, therapy sessions, and adult day centersSupport for non-emergency medical transport needs7. Mental Health and Social ServicesCounseling and psychiatric careSocial work support for family and caregiver assistanceCoordination of community resources for additional support8. Hospital and Nursing Home Care (if needed)Acute care services when hospitalization is necessaryShort-term or long-term nursing home care, if remaining at home is no longer feasibleHow Colorado PACE Enhances Senior IndependenceColorado PACE plays a crucial role in enabling seniors to remain in their homes by offering a coordinated and integrated approach to healthcare. Some of the key benefits include:Personalized Care Coordination: A dedicated team of healthcare professionalsincluding doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workersworks together to develop individualized care plans that address each participants unique needs.Comprehensive Services Under One Roof: PACE participants receive all necessary medical, social, and supportive services through a single program, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the need for multiple providers.Preventive and Proactive Healthcare: Regular monitoring and early intervention help prevent complications and hospitalizations, promoting overall health and well-being.Family and Caregiver Support: PACE provides essential resources and support for family members and caregivers, helping them navigate the complexities of senior care while alleviating stress and burnout.The Colorado PACE AdvantageUnlike traditional healthcare options that may require seniors to visit multiple providers and coordinate services independently, Colorado PACE streamlines the process by serving as a one-stop solution for senior care. 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Our compassionate team is dedicated to empowering seniors to live safely and comfortably in their own homes while maintaining their dignity and autonomy.
Colorado PACE
Medicare Advantage Plans 13650 East Mississippi Avenue, Aurora, Colorado, 80012Colorado PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is a non-profit senior healthcare organization dedicated to enabling nursing home-eligible seniors to live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as safely possible. As a health plan with a Medicare contract, Colorado PACE offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its participants.Understanding PACE and Its Relationship with Medicare Advantage PlansPACE is a unique program that integrates aspects of both Medicare and Medicaid to provide comprehensive care for the elderly. Unlike traditional Medicare Advantage Plans, which may offer a variety of healthcare services through a network of providers, PACE delivers a coordinated, all-inclusive care model. This model encompasses all Medicare-covered services, Medicaid-covered services, and additional services deemed necessary by the PACE interdisciplinary team to improve and maintain the participant's health. By enrolling in PACE, participants receive a personalized care plan that addresses their specific health needs, allowing them to remain in their community rather than moving to a nursing home.Eligibility Criteria for Colorado PACETo qualify for Colorado PACE, individuals must meet the following requirements:Age: Be 55 years of age or older.Level of Care: Require a nursing home level of care, as certified by the state of Colorado.Residence: Live within the service area of a PACE organization.Community Living: Be able to live safely in the community with the support of PACE services at the time of enrollment.These criteria ensure that PACE serves individuals who are most in need of comprehensive, coordinated care to maintain their independence.Comprehensive Services Offered by Colorado PACEColorado PACE provides an extensive array of services tailored to meet the individual needs of each participant. The interdisciplinary team (IDT) at the Colorado PACE Day Center coordinates all health services, ensuring a seamless and personalized care experience. Key services include:Primary Care Services: Access to primary care providers who specialize in geriatric medicine, focusing on preventive care and chronic disease management.Nursing Care: Registered nurses who monitor health status, administer medications, and provide education on managing health conditions.Therapy Services: Physical, occupational, and speech therapists work with participants to maintain and improve mobility, functionality, and communication skills.Social Services: Social workers assist with counseling, support services, and connecting participants to community resources.Home Care Services: Personal care attendants and home health aides provide assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, enabling participants to remain in their homes.Transportation: Transportation drivers ensure participants can attend medical appointments and activities at the PACE Day Center, reducing barriers to accessing care.Nutritional Counseling and Meals: Dietitians offer nutritional counseling, and participants receive meals tailored to their dietary needs.Recreational Therapy: Recreational therapists engage participants in activities that promote socialization, mental stimulation, and overall well-being.Dental, Vision, and Hearing Services: Comprehensive care includes dental check-ups, vision assessments, and hearing evaluations, along with the provision of necessary aids like glasses and hearing devices.Prescription Drugs: All necessary medications are provided through the PACE program, ensuring participants have access to their prescriptions without additional cost.This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a participant's health and well-being are addressed, promoting independence and quality of life.Benefits of Enrolling in Colorado PACEParticipating in Colorado PACE offers numerous advantages over traditional Medicare Advantage Plans:Coordinated Care: The interdisciplinary team develops and implements a personalized care plan, coordinating all services to prevent fragmented care delivery.24/7 Access to Services: Participants have access to healthcare services around the clock, ensuring timely interventions and support.Cost-Effective Care: There are no deductibles or co-payments for any drug, service, or care approved by the IDT, alleviating financial burdens on participants.Transportation Services: Transportation is arranged from home to the PACE Day Center for healthcare services included in the personalized care plan, eliminating transportation barriers.Support for Caregivers: Ongoing support is provided to caregivers and family members, recognizing their crucial role in the participant's care network.Enhanced Independence: By focusing on abilities and strengths, PACE helps participants remain in their homes and communities, preserving dignity and promoting autonomy.Enrollment Process for Colorado PACEEnrolling in Colorado PACE involves a structured process to ensure that the program is a suitable fit for the individual's needs:Referral and Intake: The process begins when an individual or someone on their behalf contacts Colorado PACE. An Enrollment Specialist provides information about the program and gathers preliminary data.Financial Consultation: The Enrollment Specialist discusses financial options based on the individual's situation, including potential coverage through Medicare, Medicaid, or private pay.Functional Eligibility Assessment: An assessor evaluates the individual's functional status to determine eligibility based on the need for nursing home-level care.Comprehensive Assessment: The interdisciplinary team conducts a thorough assessment at the PACE Day Center to develop a personalized care plan.Enrollment: Upon agreement, enrollment materials are reviewed and signed, with services commencing on the first day of the following month.This detailed process ensures that each participant receives care tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.Cost Structure and Financial ConsiderationsThe cost of participating in Colorado PACE varies based on individual financial situations:Medicaid Recipients: Individuals eligible for Medicaid pay no monthly premium for PACE services