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S 477

An Act establishing the program of all-inclusive care for the elderly

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts establishes integrated community-based care program for elderly to enable aging in place while reducing nursing home dependence and costs.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2825
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Bill Summary · S 477

Legislative bill overview

S 477 establishes a comprehensive Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Massachusetts, which provides integrated medical, social, and long-term care services to elderly individuals who qualify for nursing home care but wish to remain in their communities. The program coordinates care through adult day centers, transportation, meals, and other support services while emphasizing preventive care and quality of life.

Why is this important

PACE programs address the growing need to support an aging population while reducing costly institutional care and honoring preferences for aging in place. For Massachusetts, this legislation could reduce state Medicaid expenditures on nursing homes while improving elderly residents' independence and community engagement—a significant fiscal and social policy consideration given rising healthcare costs and demographic shifts.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs and sustainability: Concerns about whether adequate state funding exists to establish and maintain PACE infrastructure, particularly in rural areas with smaller elderly populations
  • Nursing home industry impact: Opposition from long-term care facilities concerned about potential revenue loss and workforce implications if PACE diverts eligible residents from institutional settings
  • Accessibility and enrollment barriers: Questions about whether eligibility requirements, application complexity, and service availability will actually reach elderly populations who lack advocacy or technological access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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