#USA #Washington, D.C. #Healthcare Policy #Mehmet Oz #PACE Association

National PACE Association's 2026 Spring Policy Forum

The National PACE Association (NPA) held its pivotal Spring Policy Forum on March 23, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This forum attracted hundreds of leaders in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), providing a platform for discussing current and future healthcare initiatives. Dr. Mehmet Oz, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the essential role of PACE in elevating care options for seniors.

The Scope of PACE

PACE programs play a crucial role in supporting elderly individuals with complex healthcare needs by enabling them to live in their communities rather than in nursing homes. By coordinating various healthcare services through an interdisciplinary team, PACE ensures that older adults receive the comprehensive care they require. Notably, there are currently over 200 PACE organizations delivering care to more than 90,000 seniors across the country. However, a significant number of eligible seniors still lack access to these valuable services.

Expanding Accessibility and Support

During the forum, NPA and PACE providers raised critical points regarding the need for expanding eligibility criteria and enhancing affordability. The initiative emphasizes the importance of simplifying the enrollment process to make PACE accessible to a broader demographic. Shawn Bloom, President and CEO of NPA, highlighted the cost-effective nature of PACE for taxpayers and families. By facilitating independent living options for seniors, PACE alleviates the burden on families, offers a better quality of life, and reduces the need for institutional care.

Administrator Oz’s presence at the forum reflects a significant acknowledgment of the crucial role that PACE organizations play in delivering quality, community-based care. His commitment to advancing healthcare solutions for the aging population showcases the government's dedication to improving social support systems.

The Call for Policy Changes

The NPA is advocating for several policy changes that would further enhance access to PACE. These include modernizing regulatory requirements, streamlining the application process, and supporting state-level initiatives to foster the establishment of new PACE organizations. Expanding PACE could significantly enhance the availability of long-term services and supports (LTSS) for seniors, ensuring that they receive timely and high-quality care when needed.

Conclusion

The dialogue fostered during the NPA's Spring Policy Forum signifies a progressive step towards improving the trajectory of senior care in America. As the PACE model of care continues to gain traction, increased collaboration between CMS, policymakers, and PACE organizations will be key to addressing the growing demands of an aging population. For more insight into the efforts of the NPA and PACE programs, please visit NPAonline.org and follow them on Twitter @TweetNPA.

By promoting a community-centered approach to healthcare for seniors, we can work towards a system that supports aging individuals in maintaining their dignity, independence, and quality of life.