Bill > SB1390

This bill amends Tennessee's TennCare laws to expand and establish new Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in the state. Specifically, the bill directs the TennCare director to establish a new PACE pilot program in one of Tennessee's two grand divisions where such a program did not exist in 2024. PACE is a comprehensive healthcare program designed for frail elderly individuals who require nursing facility-level care, providing integrated acute and long-term care services. The bill outlines a detailed application process for potential PACE providers, requiring them to submit a letter of intent, market analysis, and meet federal eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate an unmet need for the program in their proposed service area. Additionally, the legislation permits an existing PACE program in a specific county to expand its service area into certain contiguous counties based on precise population requirements. The bill mandates that the TennCare bureau provide annual reports on PACE programs to legislative leaders, starting January 1, 2026, and requires managed care organizations to consider PACE as an alternative to nursing facility referrals. The bill aims to increase access to comprehensive elderly care services across different regions of Tennessee.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1390&ga=114