Many families assume nursing home care is the only option when a loved one needs daily medical support. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers another option for qualifying seniors. It serves those who need a nursing home level of care but want to remain in the community. PACE coordinates medical care, therapy, prescriptions, transportation, and social services through one program.
Despite its potential to support aging in place, PACE remains unfamiliar to many Florida families. Understanding the program’s rules, eligibility, and availability can help families consider PACE as part of their long-term care planning.
The Financial Pressure of Nursing Home Care
Florida’s long-term care income rules can affect whether a senior qualifies for Medicaid-funded care. For 2026, the nursing home Medicaid income cap is generally 300% of the federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit rate. For an individual, that limit is $2,982 per month. Seniors whose income exceeds the cap may still qualify through a properly established Qualified Income Trust, also known as a Miller Trust.
The cost of nursing home care also highlights why families may look for community-based alternatives. In Florida, the 2024 median annual cost for a semi-private nursing home room was $124,100, or about $10,342 per month. These costs can quickly drain savings, making home- and community-based care alternatives worth exploring.
How the PACE Program Works
PACE is a Medicare program that states can also offer through Medicaid. It serves adults age 55 and older who meet specific eligibility requirements. PACE provides coordinated medical and supportive services to help participants remain safely in the community.
Each participant receives an individualized care plan from an interdisciplinary team. The team may include a primary care provider, nurse, social worker, therapists, dietitian, and home care coordinator. Together, they assess the participant’s medical, functional, and social needs and coordinate care based on the individual’s plan.
Care is provided primarily at a PACE center. Participants can also receive services at home or in other settings when needed. Participants typically visit the PACE center several days a week, although schedules vary by individual care plan. The coordinated approach helps participants receive the care they need while continuing to live in the community.
Who Can Enroll in Florida
To enroll in PACE, a senior must meet four basic requirements:
- Be at least 55 years old
- Live in a PACE service area
- Meet the state’s criteria for nursing home care
- Be able to live safely in the community with PACE support
Meeting a nursing home level of care does not mean the person must enter a nursing home. It means their health and functional needs are significant enough to qualify for that level of care.
The program is available to seniors who qualify for public coverage, as well as some individuals who pay privately. PACE costs and coverage depend on the participant’s coverage. People who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid generally have no PACE-related deductibles or coinsurance. Others may pay a monthly premium for the program’s long-term care coverage.
Services and Benefits Covered
PACE provides a comprehensive package of medical, supportive, and social services based on each participant’s care plan. Services may include:
- Primary and specialty medical care
- Nursing services and hospital care
- Prescription medications
- Physical, occupational, and other therapies
- Behavioral health services
- Dental and vision care
- Transportation to the PACE center and medical appointments
- Meals and nutritional counseling
- Personal care and home care services
- Home safety modifications when medically necessary
The program can also coordinate services such as laboratory testing, medical equipment, and other care a participant needs. The specific services provided depend on the participant’s care plan and clinical needs.
Florida Counties Offering PACE
PACE is available in multiple regions across Florida, but the program does not cover every county. As of 2026, operational service areas include:
- Miami-Dade County
- Lee County
- Pinellas County
- Charlotte County
- Collier County
- Palm Beach County
- Broward County
- Duval County
- Clay County
- Hillsborough County
- Hernando County
- Pasco County
- Manatee County
- Sarasota County
- DeSoto County
- Orange County
- Osceola County
- Lake County
- Sumter County
- Seminole County
- Martin County
- Escambia County
- Okaloosa County
- Santa Rosa County
Each PACE organization serves a defined geographic area, so you must live within its service area to enroll. Coverage can change as organizations expand or new programs receive approval. Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) publishes monthly reports showing current providers, service areas, and application statuses.
If PACE is not available in your county, other community-based options may be available. Florida’s Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care (SMMC LTC) program provides home and community-based services to eligible individuals.
Common Questions About the PACE Program
Can I keep my own doctor if I enroll in PACE?
Program participants generally receive primary care through the PACE organization. If you need an outside specialist or provider, the team coordinates that care as part of your care plan. Talk with the organization before enrolling if keeping a particular doctor is important to you.
Does PACE replace my Medicare or Medicaid coverage?
PACE becomes responsible for coordinating and providing your Medicare- and Medicaid-covered services once you enroll. Rather than receiving those benefits separately, you receive covered care through the organization. If you disenroll, your Medicare or Medicaid coverage returns to its previous arrangement.
Can I enroll in PACE if the program is full?
PACE organizations have enrollment limits based on their approved capacity. If a local program is full, ask whether enrollment is currently available or whether you can be notified when space opens.
What happens if I eventually need nursing home care?
PACE can provide nursing facility care when it becomes medically necessary. The organization continues to coordinate the participant’s care, including nursing home services when appropriate.
Get Help Navigating Florida’s Care Options
PACE can give eligible seniors another option for receiving comprehensive care while remaining in the community. But whether it fits your loved one depends on eligibility, Medicaid considerations, and local availability.
If you’re unsure whether PACE or another benefits option may fit your family’s situation, contact Scott Law Offices. We can help you understand your options and how Medicaid or VA benefits may factor into your care planning.