New Jersey Governor Signs Legislation to Expand Access to PACE

WASHINGTON, DC – New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has signed legislation that will expand access to Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), managed long-term services and supports, and home and community-based services. New Jersey Assembly Bill 4049 allows the use of Medicaid presumptive financial eligibility for PACE, according to state officials. The change allows coverage to begin upon receipt of an individual’s request for service and would be terminated if the individual subsequently is determined to be clinically or financially ineligible under Medicaid criteria.

"The National PACE Association applauds the New Jersey legislature and Gov. Murphy for passing this important legislation,” said Shawn Bloom, president and CEO of the National PACE Association (NPA). “The change removes barriers to entry to PACE, which is a proven model of care for seniors, and it will enable more families to benefit from the program, receive the care they need, and remain independent in their own homes.”

The change is critical because individuals searching for long-term services and supports often are in immediate need of accessing services and cannot wait weeks for administrative approvals.

The provision of presumptive eligibility under the bill is to occur within 30 months and is contingent on securing all necessary federal approvals and financial participation. The New Jersey commissioner of Human Services is authorized to take any anticipatory administrative action in advance as is necessary for implementation.

"We’re grateful for the work of the New Jersey PACE Association on this important issue,” Bloom said. “NPA and our partner PACE state associations continue to work with other states to improve the PACE enrollment process.”

The National PACE Association (NPA) works to advance the efforts of PACE programs, which coordinate and provide preventive, primary, acute, and long-term care services so older individuals can continue living in the community. The PACE model of care is centered on the belief that it is better for the well-being of seniors with chronic care needs and their families to be served in the community whenever possible.