What is the PACE Program?

Author

MERCY LIFE - Alabama

Posted on

Jul 21, 2022

Book/Edition

Alabama - Gulf Coast

What Do You Mean By PACE?

The Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) creatively coordinates the care of each participant enrolled in the program based on his or her individual needs with the goal of enabling older individuals to remain living in their community. 


Getting older and staying independent is not always easy. You may have trouble with daily activities like getting to primary care provider's appointments, bathing, and getting dressed. Mercy LIFE of Alabama’s PACE program can help you do all of these things while living safely at home, and your team of healthcare providers at LIFE will help you live as healthy as possible.

 

Who does Mercy LIFE of Alabama serve?

Mercy LIFE of Alabama serves seniors in the community and in our center. Staying independent and remaining at home is important for seniors, but sometimes living safely at home can be a challenge. Mercy LIFE of Alabama understands this and we help seniors live safely at home. Seniors in our program benefit from a wide range of healthcare services provided in our PACE center or in the home, 365 days a year.

 

Who pays for the program?

Program payment is determined based on Medicare and Medicaid eligibility. Typically, services are free to those who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid, but some participants are required to pay monthly fees if they are over income or asset limits determined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.

 

Who qualifies?

Many participants are enrolled in Medicare and qualify for Medicaid. You are likely eligible for this program if you:

 

  • Are 55 or older.
  • Live in the service care area.
  • Are certified by the state at a nursing home level of care.
  • Have been assessed by our care team and can live safely in the community without helpful services.

 

Is preventative care covered?

Yes. The focus of every PACE organization is to help you live in the community for as long as possible. To meet this goal, PACE programs focus on preventive care.

 

What if my health limits my ability to come to the centers?  Can I have home care?

Those who are eligible will receive home care services. The Mercy LIFE of Alabama interdisciplinary team will let you know if your care plan includes home care services.

 

Is transportation provided?

We'll provide transportation to Mercy LIFE of Alabama for activities or medical appointments. We'll also provide transportation to appointments scheduled by LIFE in your community.

 

If I enroll in Mercy LIFE, do I have to change doctors?

Participants at Mercy LIFE of Alabama must receive care from our program's care team and through our network of providers. You will need to see our primary care provider, but your specialists may be a part of our network. Our team will let you know what doctors you will be able to see when you begin the enrollment process.

 

What Would My Day look like at Mercy LIFE of Alabama?

Participants are picked up by our LIFE transportation and brought to the center in the morning. You'll have breakfast with other participants. You may see your doctor or nurse if you have an appointment in the clinic. You might also see your physical therapist or occupational therapist. Participants can enjoy a wide range of activities and groups at the center. You'll have a healthy lunch, and transportation will bring you back home in the afternoon.

 

What are the Eligibility Requirements?

  • You may qualify for LIFE services if you:
  • Are age 55 or older
  • Live in one of the service area zip codes
  • Have been assessed by the state as needing nursing home care
  • Are able to live safely at home with services provided by Mercy LIFE of Alabama
  • Mercy LIFE of Alabama services are typically free to seniors who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid or Medicaid only. For participants who do not qualify for Medicaid, there is a flat monthly fee.

 


To learn more about Mercy LIFE of Alabama, please contact them at 251-287-8427. 

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