Thursday, August 30, 2012

ATKINS BILL HELPS SENIORS STAY OUT OF NURSING HOMES



Sacramento - Seniors with chronic illnesses who are eligible for Medi-Cal or Medicaid will be offered enrollment in the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) under legislation by Assemblymember Toni Atkins that was sent to the Governor today. 

PACE programs are managed care options that provide integrated care – including medical and home care, transportation, and daycare services – to seniors eligible for nursing home placement, most of whom are also beneficiaries of both Medi-Cal and Medicare.  AB 2206 would ensure that seniors are informed about their choices by requiring that information about PACE be presented whenever other enrollment options are presented.

“My bill will ensure that frail seniors are aware of this managed care program that could make the difference between living at home with their families and hospitalization,” says Atkins.  “In addition to preserving the independence and dignity of seniors, the PACE program is also a more cost effective alternative to nursing home care.”

Currently, five PACE programs operate in seven counties in California, including San Diego.

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