When you hear about PACE you might think: “This sounds too good to be true.”
Doctors, medicine, rides, care at home, and even activities and meals -- all in one healthcare plan, often with no cost?
Yes! PACE exists because it works for people and for state taxpayers.
Why PACE Was Created in Kansas
Kansas and other states noticed a big problem: many older adults who needed help couldn’t live safely at home anymore.
They went into nursing homes because it was too hard to get help at home.
Nursing homes cost a lot of money.
So states helped create PACE, usually in their biggest cities but also in rural areas.
The idea: If we can give older adults good care in their home or community, they will stay home longer and cost less overall.
PACE Save Money for States
- PACE enrollees have care needs that might qualify them for living in a facility, yet over 90% continue to live in their homes or community.
- Studies show PACE saves states about $33,600 per person per year compared with more costly care settings.
- One organization shows PACE costs were 40-42% less than institutional care in one state’s example.
No Catch… But There Are Conditions
PACE is not for people who are fully independent with no daily help needs.
It is for people whose health is changing and who may need a lot of help soon.
If you qualify, your health needs must be at a higher level, but you can still live safely in the community with PACE support.
Why It PACE Works
PACE brings everything together: medical care, home support, meals, rides.
With one team coordinating your care, small problems get noticed early.
Fewer hospital stays, fewer trips to nursing homes, and better quality of life at home.
That’s why states pay for it.
It’s better for people, and better for budgets.
Is Kansas PACE Right for You Today?
If you are starting to need more help each day — maybe with medicine, or getting to appointments, or staying safe at home, PACE might fit well.
If you’re healthy, go out often, and manage fine on your own, this may not be the time.
But the door is open; if your needs change, PACE is ready.
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Sources
- Kansas PACE, PACE vs. Medicare Advantage, (kansaspace.org/compare)
- Williams CT. Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). NCBI. 2023. (NCBI)
- Pacific Research Institute. New PRI Study: Reforms to Expand PACE Program Could Save Taxpayers Billions. 2025. (Pacific Research Institute)
- Outcomes & Effectiveness Data – 96% Remain in Community. 2024. (Generations Now)
- CALPACE. PACE Cost-Effectiveness Fact Sheet. 2021. (CalPACE)
- AARP Public Policy Institute. How the PACE Model Integrates Medical Care With Long-Term Services and Supports. 2023. (LTSS Choices)
