Elderly care continues despite DeSantis’ vetoed budget

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently issued a line-item veto of nearly $4 million intended to expand the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Pinellas County. While the funding was earmarked for 250 additional enrollment slots, local healthcare leaders report that the decision will not result in any service interruptions for the region's aging population. This development highlights the ongoing fiscal and operational dynamics of community-based long-term care models in states with high concentrations of seniors.

The vetoed $3,939,123 was specifically designated to increase capacity for PACE services in Pinellas County, a region with one of Florida's largest senior populations. Dr. Nicholas Joseph, senior vice president of the Complete Care Division at Empath Life, clarified that the loss of these specific funds will not hinder the organization’s ability to provide care. Empath Life, which is currently rebranding from its former name, Suncoast PACE, maintains sufficient existing capacity to absorb the 250 slots that were originally slated for expansion, ensuring that eligible seniors can still access services without delay.

The PACE model serves adults aged 55 and older who meet the criteria for nursing home-level care but prefer to remain in their homes. By utilizing an interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers, the program provides a 'concierge' level of coordinated medical and supportive services. This approach includes primary and specialty care, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and transportation, all tailored to help participants avoid the need for assisted living or nursing home placement.

Beyond improving individual quality of life, the PACE framework significantly reduces the burden on the broader healthcare system by minimizing emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Dr. Joseph noted that many participants who previously required monthly hospital visits often see those numbers drop to once or twice a year after enrolling in the program. Despite the recent budget cut, Joseph emphasized that the state’s overall support for PACE has grown significantly over the last decade, and the enrollment process—which typically takes about 60 days for state eligibility determination—remains open for new participants.