Complex or overwhelming information is easier to comprehend when shared in manageable portions. When making healthcare decisions, it is vital to not only have all the correct information but to fully understand that information. Having a comfort level in knowing healthcare needs will be met can mean the difference between constant worry and peace of mind.
PACE centers (Programs of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly) are relatively new to the state of New Jersey, so getting the answers to those frequently asked questions is important. It is best to be fully informed while making healthcare decisions. This second blog of a three-part series continues giving answers to frequently asked questions about PACE programs.
Q.1: What is the goal of PACE?
A 1: The goal is to help achieve and maintain the highest functional level for each participant, keeping in mind that each person has a different maximum potential. PACE programs seek to effectively manage chronic conditions and reduce the number of re-hospitalizations. The capitated pay structure offers incentive for providers to manage the provision of care and to maintain a state of relative wellness for each participant. PACE organizations focus on helping the frail and elderly live in the community for as long as possible, and to meet this goal, PACE organizations focus on preventive care.
Q 2: What services are provided at a PACE center?
A 2: PACE centers provide participants with ongoing needs care along a broad continuum. These services include nursing and personal care, as well as physical, occupational and recreational therapy. Meals and nutritional counseling promote wellness and many forms of healing. Social services are provided to help participants and their family members. Other services include the following:
Primary Care Hospital Care Medical Specialty Services
Prescription Drugs Nursing Home Care Emergency Services
Home Care Physical therapy Occupational therapy
Adult Day Care Recreational therapy Meals
Dentistry Nutritional Counseling Social Services
Laboratory / X-ray Services Social Work Counseling Transportation
Q 3: Are there doctors available at the center?
A 3: Each PACE program has a group of physicians on staff providing medical care as needed. This group is typically composed of a medical director that guides the program and oversees the other physicians. PACE physicians become familiar with the history, needs and preferences of each participant. Medical specialties, such as audiology, dentistry, optometry, podiatry and speech therapy are usually present.
Q 4: What if I need to see another specialist and how will I get there?
A 4: PACE organizations provide all medically-necessary transportation to the PACE center for activities or medical appointments. You can also get transportation to appointments in the community.
Q 5: What if I need more care?
A 5: If a PACE enrollee needs nursing home care, the PACE program pays for it and continues to coordinate the enrollee’s care. While all PACE members must be certified to need nursing home care, only about 7 percent of PACE participants nationally reside in a nursing home.
Q 6: What happens if a PACE program is not for me?
A 6: PACE participants may dis-enroll from the program at any time and for any reason, those with Medicare or Medicaid will be assisted in returning to their former health care coverage. Enrollment continues as long as desired by the PACE participant, regardless of change in health status, until expiration or voluntary or involuntary dis-enrollment.
Knowing the right questions to ask will cultivate better answers. Better answers are the basis for better decisions and better decisions ultimately allow better outcomes. Obtaining all the facts by getting all the FAQ’s answered will help to achieve the best outcome possible. Contact the caring professionals at Beacon of Life, Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly at 732-592-3400 or by clicking here.