Helena Temkin-Greener, PhD, Department of Community and Preventive Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 644, Rochester, NY 14642, 585 275 7813, helena_greener@urmc.rochester.edu and Dana B. Mukamel, Ph D, Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine & Primary Care, University of California, Irvine, Health Policy Research, 100 Theory, Suite 110, Irvine, CA 92697.

Frail, older people, particularly those age 85 and older, are the fastest growing population group and have multiple and complex chronic care needs. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) was developed to address the needs of this population with the goal of maintaining individuals in their own homes for as long as possible. This presentation describes the unique features and the common delivery and financing elements of the program and the population it serves, and traces the continuing evolution of PACE from inception through today. PACE features four concepts that enable the program to adapt itself to the needs of the participants. First, PACE programs provide and coordinate an all-inclusive care package ranging from primary, acute to long-term care services. Second, care is delivered by an interdisciplinary team, which allows for care management, coordination, and integration of primary and specialty medical care. Third, the program receives capitated payment from Medicare, Medicaid or private funding sources allowing the program to align the clinical and financial incentives. Fourth, PACE embodies a philosophical approach to care that emphasizes creativity and flexibility in accommodating services to the needs of the participants. Since the mid 1990s, PACE has grown from 10 sites serving approximately 2,500 participants to 39 programs serving over 10,000 individuals. The program has also evolved from a demonstration status to becoming a Medicare provider.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation participants will

• be able to identify principal components of the PACE model of care and financing, and
• be able to recognize eligibility criteria for PACE enrollment.

Keywords: Aging, Medicare/Medicaid

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: contractual agreement with the NPA