NC PACE ASSOCIATION

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Would you like a  PACE program in your community?

Developing a PACE program is a complex and lengthy process involving the state government, the federal government and the program sponsor(s). It is not for the faint of heart or for those seeking immediate results. Fortunately, the North Carolina and National PACE Associations have many resources to assist in the development of new PACE programs. A visit to the NPA website is the critical first step. 

The next best way to learn about PACE is from others who have gone through the process. The best way to interact with them is to participate in the state and national associations. Much information is available to everyone on-line, while membership provides more opportunities for education and in-depth assistance, including annual conferences. You don't have to be a full-fledged program to take advantage of an Exploring Membership for your organization. Contact NC PACE Association for more information and to discuss your plans.  

After getting a good understanding of what is involved in the PACE development process, you may want to consider the following questions as you decide how to proceed:


Do you want to go it alone, or form a partnership with other entities who want PACE in the community?

North Carolina PACE Association has demonstrated that a variety of models of PACE development can be successful. Programs have grown out of adult day care centers, federally qualified health centers, large religious-affiliated entities, hospitals and various other health or elderly related entities. Partnerships have proven effective, while going it alone remains an option.  Partnerships spread the risk, the start-up costs and the community buy-in, while going it alone yields greater control and future return.


Is there a program near you that might be able to expand to serve you?

This is always worth considering, as expansions of existing programs are easier and faster than a new startup.

The Process in NC

So you’ve decided to move forward. Now what?

The Letter of Intent

State and federal regulations require prospective PACE providers to “define” a service area which must be approved by the state and CMS. This is done by submitting a letter of intent to the state PACE Program Manager which specifies the counties or portions thereof (usually by zip codes) that you anticipate serving. At a minimum, you should have knowledge of the market, a grasp of the feasibility, and confidence of your capacity and commitment to develop a program before requesting the service area. A technical assistance provider can assist with this process, if necessary.

Who Is the State Contact?

The PACE Program Manager for the state of North Carolina is Beverly Bell. She is the state representative you will interact with most frequently, both before and after opening. She receives the initial Letter of Intent indicating which areas you want serve with your new PACE program, and she will conduct pre-opening reviews and make recommendations for approval of your program. After you open, she will work with you closely on program implementation.

Beverly Bell, MA, LPC
Long Term Care Operations Manager 
NC Medicaid 
Division of Health Benefits 
NC Department of Health and Human Services
Office: 919-855-4392
Mobile: 919-500-1762
Fax: 919-715-2628
beverly.bell@dhhs.nc.gov
1985 Umstead Drive, Kirby Building
2501 Mail Service Center 
Raleigh, NC 27699-2501


Technical Assistance Providers

Technical assistance is very important to PACE start-ups, so you will want to carefully choose the TA provider who is right for you. North Carolina PACE programs are glad to share their experiences with these providers, and you can find out more about qualified PACE consultants at NPA’s website


About us

Supporting the development, expansion, success and quality of PACE programs in North Carolina, so that every person who is eligible for PACE will have access to this service

North Carolina PACE Association serves as the credible voice and leader to advance PACE, thereby transforming healthcare in North Carolina.

CAREERS AT PACE

Link to current openings at NC PACE Centers.

Contact us

Email: info@ncpace.org
Phone: 919-428-7118
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 878
Holly Springs, NC 27540

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