How to apply for PACE — Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (Tennessee)

Who it's for

PACE provides all the medical and supportive care a frail older adult needs to keep living in the community instead of a nursing home — doctors, prescriptions, therapy, adult day care, transportation, and in-home help — coordinated by one team. To join you must be 55 or older, need a nursing-home level of care, and be able to live safely in the community. In Tennessee, PACE is offered by Alexian PACE and is available ONLY in Hamilton County (Chattanooga).

What you'll need

• Proof of age 55+
• Proof of residence in Hamilton County
• Medicaid/Medicare information (the PACE organization helps with the application)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about PACE — Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (Tennessee). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 55+, proof of residence in Hamilton County, medicaid/Medicare information (the PACE organization helps with the application) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Check that you meet the basic requirements: you must be 55 or older, live in Hamilton County (Chattanooga), need a nursing-facility level of care, and be able to live safely in the community.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of age (showing you are 55 or older), proof of residence in Hamilton County, and any Medicaid or Medicare information you have. Note that Alexian PACE can help you apply for Medicaid if needed.
3. Contact Alexian PACE to start your application. You can apply online or call 1-423-698-0802.
4. Complete the enrollment assessment. An Alexian PACE team member will review your care needs to confirm you qualify for a nursing-facility level of care and can safely remain in the community.
5. Work with the PACE team to finalize your coverage. If you have Medicaid, you likely pay nothing out of pocket. If you have only Medicare, or neither Medicaid nor Medicare, private-pay options will be explained to you.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the Alexian PACE team will coordinate your enrollment review and let you know next steps. Processing times vary, so ask the team for an estimate when you apply. Once enrolled, your care — including doctors, prescriptions, therapy, adult day care, transportation, and in-home help — is coordinated by one PACE team. Enrollment is reviewed annually, so you will need to renew each year to keep your benefits. Important: Tennessee's PACE program is available only in Hamilton County (Chattanooga). If you live elsewhere in Tennessee, ask about TennCare CHOICES for long-term care support instead.

Renewals

annual