The Division of Health Facilities Evaluation and Licensing of the Senior Services and Health Systems Branch of the Department of Health and Senior Services is proposing new rules N.J.A.C. 8:43A-33, in the Manual of Standards for Licensing of Ambulatory Care Facilities, to establish standards for Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).  The Department also proposes to amend existing N.J.A.C. 8:43A-2.2 to add application fees for licensure and licensure renewal for PACE organizations. The proposal appears in the October 2, 2006 issue of the New Jersey Register.

PACE organizations provide services to individuals who are aged 55 or older, whom the Department has certified to require nursing home care, who can live safely in the community at the time of enrollment, and who live in a PACE service area.  PACE organizations provide all needed medical and supportive services to participants while helping participants to maintain independence in their homes as long as possible.  These programs are pre-paid, capitated programs for beneficiaries who meet the eligibility requirements and elect to enroll.

PACE is a cooperative program between the United States Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS) and the states.  In New Jersey, the Department is responsible for overseeing the program.  The Department is proposing to incorporate the USDHHS regulations governing Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), as the new rules in new subchapter N.J.A.C. 8:43A-33.  The USDHHS originally adopted its PACE regulations in 1999.

The public has until December 1, 2006 to comment on the proposal.  Persons wishing to comment on the proposal must submit their comments in writing to John Calabria, Director, Certificate of Need and Acute Care Licensure Program, Division of Health Facilities Evaluation and Licensing, Department of Health and Senior Services, PO Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360.  Written comments on the proposal must be postmarked on or before December 1, 2006, which is the close of the 60-day public comment period.

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