PACE was established partly as a result of the success of the On Lok program, but the PACE program is separate from On Lok. Each of the current ten nationwide PACE sites is reviewed at least annually. PACE sites continue to operate under the Secretary's discretionary authority. PACE specifically targets frail elderly persons eligible for nursing home care, but who are living in the community. PACE seeks to help individuals continue to five at home and not in a nursing home facility.
PACE integrates social and medical services through adult day health care.
It uses a multidisciplinary team approach, with care provided by physicians, nurses, social workers, nutritionists, occupational and speech therapists, and health and transportation workers. Through preventative and rehabilitative services, participants' chronic conditions can be stabilized and medical complications prevented. Community living is usually the overwhelming choice of participants. However, should nursing home placement become necessary, PACE also provides that service. PACE enrollees receive all health services through PACE, including physician services, hospitalization, therapies, pharmaceuticals, and equipment.