বিভাগ: অল-ইনক্লুসিভ কেয়ার

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Resilience is reflected in everyday moments. In my role as President and Chief Executive Officer of CenterLight Health System, I have the honor of spending time with many of the older adults we serve. Time and again, our participants show me resilience through their determination, optimism, and commitment to their loved ones and the routines and experiences that bring meaning to their lives. It may look like celebrating progress during a rehabilitation session, joining an activity at the PACE center, forming a new friendship, or choosing connection and independence one day at a time.

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), we provide individualized care that helps older adults remain safe and independent in their own homes. In caring for our participants, we are continually reminded that aging is a journey filled with strength, adaptability, purpose, and meaningful relationships. Their resilience inspires us every day and reinforces our belief that, with encouragement and the right support, each day can bring connection and fulfillment.

When we hear the word resilience, we may think of major milestones or achievements.

At CenterLight, we also see it in quieter, deeply meaningful ways: in someone rediscovering the joy of art, music, or movement; in an older adult finding routine and belonging at the center; in moments that affirm purpose at every age.

Our role is to help each participant continue to thrive in their communities. This may include medical care, physical and occupational therapies, nutrition, social work, therapeutic recreation, transportation, home care, and other services tailored to their unique needs and preferences. Just as important, it means listening, recognizing each individual as active participants in their care, and honoring their culture, goals, preferences, and sense of home.

The Strength of Connection

One of the things I value most about the PACE model of care is the community it creates. At CenterLight’s centers, participants receive support while building friendships, sharing meals, celebrating traditions, and learning new skills. Time and again, I have seen how connection can build confidence and brighten someone’s day. A familiar face, a shared laugh, or a team member who remembers what matters most to a participant can help them feel encouraged, valued, and known.

What We Learn From the People We Serve

Our participants teach us that resilience can be expressed through courage, openness, humor, faith, creativity, and the steady choice to keep moving forward. They remind us that joy often lives in simple experiences: a song, a painting, a conversation, a birthday celebration, or the comfort of remaining in the community one calls home.

They also inspire us to keep learning and improving. We listen carefully, respond thoughtfully, and build care around what matters to each participant. For CenterLight, that means providing coordinated, culturally sensitive care that recognizes the person behind every care plan.

A Daily Reminder of Why Our Work Matters

Every day, our participants remind us why our work matters. Their resilience inspires us to provide care with respect, compassion, and heart — care that helps people stay connected to the lives, neighborhoods, and traditions they love.

At CenterLight, we are honored to walk alongside our participants and their families through every stage of the aging journey. Each day, they remind us that aging is marked by strength, resilience, compassion, hope, and the enduring power of community and human connection. We are deeply grateful for the lessons they share, and they inspire us to continually reinforce our commitment to helping enrich the lives of those who depend on us for their care.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Health System.

In her own words:

"My passion for leading healthcare organizations to provide high quality services to those who need them springs from my personal experience with eldercare. I believe in providing care that you’d want your own loved ones to receive. To be able to do this, it is imperative to see things from the perspective of compassion, caring, and kindness. With more than two decades of leadership experience in this industry, I truly believe that PACE is one of the nation’s best-kept health care secrets."

Blog_NoPOInfo_Resilience
Updated July 22, 2026

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As President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CenterLight Health System, I am reminded every day that our work reaches far beyond healthcare. While CenterLight operates the largest single-state Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in the nation, our purpose remains deeply personal: to serve older adults, support families, uplift underserved communities, and honor the trust placed in us during some of life’s most vulnerable moments.

Our mission is to provide individualized care that enriches the lives of our participants and helps them remain safely in their own homes and communities. This purpose guides us as we strive to provide the services they need, when they need them, with compassion and a deep sense of responsibility.

At CenterLight PACE, high-quality care begins with getting to know each participant and placing them at the center of every care decision. We take time to understand their health needs, personal goals, culture, and preferences because care should never be one-size-fits-all. Our approach centers on seeing the whole person, honoring their choices, and helping them live life on their own terms.

There is something deeply meaningful about helping older adults remain where they feel most at ease: at home, surrounded by the people, memories, and routines that feel familiar and bring them comfort. Home is often where identity, community, and a sense of self live. Our role at CenterLight PACE is to help protect that connection while addressing the medical, emotional, social, and practical realities of daily life.

One way this work comes to life is through the team that surrounds each participant. Doctors, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, recreation specialists, dietitians, social workers, and other dedicated professionals work together to understand each person’s needs, respect their voice, and respond with coordinated, thoughtful support. Many older adults manage more than one challenge at a time, and no one should have to face those challenges alone. This approach can bring better outcomes for participants and peace of mind for their loved ones.

Our values — caring, integrity, diversity, creativity, approachability, accountability, and availability — shape how we listen, build relationships, and provide needed services to those who turn to us for their care. In a city as diverse as New York, that means being culturally sensitive, welcoming, and respectful of each participant’s background, preferences, traditions, and beliefs. Walk into one of our PACE centers and this becomes instantly evident: in the family atmosphere, joyful events and cultural celebrations, amazing displays of rediscovered talents and newfound passions, and in the priceless smiles of our participants.

Every participant reminds us why our work matters so deeply. As I look to the future, I believe the true measure or our organization is found not only in the services we provide, but in how we help people age in place and the sense of belonging we create for the individuals we serve.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Health System.

In her own words:

"My passion for leading healthcare organizations to provide high quality services to those who need them springs from my personal experience with eldercare. I believe in providing care that you’d want your own loved ones to receive. To be able to do this, it is imperative to see things from the perspective of compassion, caring, and kindness. With more than two decades of leadership experience in this industry, I truly believe that PACE is one of the nation’s best-kept health care secrets."

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Mission
Updated June 25, 2026

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In the United States, more than 55 million people are age 65 and older, representing over 16% of the population.* In New York, 4.8 million adults are age 60 and over, and this number is projected to reach 5.3 million by 2030.** This trend is reshaping communities and the way healthcare must evolve to meet the needs of older adults.

When people talk about aging, the conversation often focuses on challenges: rising healthcare costs, social isolation, chronic illness, confusing benefits, and families trying to care for aging parents while also raising children and managing careers of their own.

I see those realities every day. But I also see something else: reasons to be hopeful.

Redefining What “Healthy Aging” Means

Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of leading various healthcare organizations. Those experiences have shaped my belief that the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers a strong model for the future of healthcare.

The principle behind PACE is simple: older adults should be able to age with independence in the communities they call home. For too long, healthcare focused on treating illness. But in the past few decades, there has been a positive shift and a growing recognition that health is about more than prescriptions, procedures, or hospital visits.

More and more, care is being shaped around what matters most to older adults. It is becoming more holistic, centered on their unique needs and preferences with a focus on prevention, mobility, nutrition, mental health, connection, and purpose. Just as timely health services are important to maintain an individual’s condition, their quality of life is equally vital. Access to culturally sensitive care, a warm meal, transportation to a doctor’s appointment, a sense of belonging, a found community, and the ability to age in place can all be just as meaningful, if not more, to a person’s well-being as medical treatment itself.

At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, we see this firsthand. Many times, a participant’s health improves not only because they receive all the services they need, but because care centers on them. Their care team understands their conditions, cultural and personal preferences, needs, and goals.

To me, this is proof that human connection can truly change outcomes.

In addition, older adults are redefining expectations around aging. They want independence, choice, and community and expect healthcare systems to adapt to them, not the other way around.

The people we serve bring rich life experiences, strong relationships, and a lasting presence in the communities around them. They make a difference in the lives of their care team as much as their care team does in theirs. They have given so much in their lifetime, and it is our turn to give back by providing the high-quality care they deserve.

Supporting the Whole Family

Caregiving has historically happened behind closed doors, often with little recognition. Today, that is beginning to change. More employers are beginning to understand the realities caregivers face. Advocates are urging policymakers to pay closer attention to long-term care needs. Healthcare organizations are investing in interdisciplinary models that support both older adults and their families.

At CenterLight PACE, we often see the relief families feel when they have a trusted team to turn to. With support for medications, transportation, therapies, social services, and medical care, families can have peace of mind and spend less time managing details and more time simply being with the people they love.

The Future of Aging Depends on Compassionate, Mission-Driven Care

One of the most inspiring parts of my role is seeing the commitment of those who have cared for older adults for many years, alongside those who are just beginning their careers. I feel fortunate to work with professionals who bring empathy, respect, and heart to what they do.

They include nurses who advocate for participants, social workers who help families through difficult moments, rehabilitation professionals who help people stay safe and independent, and therapists who help make daily life easier and more fulfilling.

The future of aging will always depend on caring people. Even with the challenges facing our industry, there are still many who are drawn to this work because they want to make a difference in the lives of others. Given the right support, their impact can reach even further.

A Future Worth Building

Aging is no longer a niche issue. Communities are increasingly recognizing that supporting older adults is not just a healthcare responsibility; it is a societal one. Cities are becoming more age friendly, intergenerational programs are growing, and conversations about accessibility, inclusion, and dignity are becoming mainstream.

I am hopeful because I see momentum, care models that put connection and humanity first, families finding support, and older adults continuing to live meaningful lives in the communities they love. More importantly, I see a growing understanding that aging is a deeply human experience, one that compels us to provide the kind of support that helps older adults feel seen, valued, and cared for.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Health System.

In her own words:

"My passion for leading healthcare organizations to provide high quality services to those who need them springs from my personal experience with eldercare. I believe in providing care that you’d want your own loved ones to receive. To be able to do this, it is imperative to see things from the perspective of compassion, caring, and kindness. With more than two decades of leadership experience in this industry, I truly believe that PACE is one of the nation’s best-kept health care secrets."

সূত্র:

*Older Americans 2024: Key Indicators of Well-being

**Master Plan for Aging

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_FutureofAging
Updated May 29, 2026

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Healthcare begins with people.

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), every participant brings with them a unique story — shaped by culture, family traditions, personal experiences, and individual challenges. No two journeys are the same. This is why diversity in healthcare is essential.

We believe that the strength of our care comes from the diversity of our staff. Different voices, perspectives, and experiences allow us to connect deeply, serve compassionately, and make a difference in the lives of those who trust us with their care.

Human Connection is the Heart of Healthcare

CenterLight Healthcare has been providing managed long-term care services to older adults in New York for more than four decades. Through our many years of experience, we have seen first-hand that meaningful moments in care are not found in diagnoses or care plans. Instead, they are found in understanding: a familiar language spoken, cultural events at our PACE sites, or a staff member who listens with empathy because they have walked a similar path.

These moments truly matter.

For many of our participants, having a care team who understands their background can make the difference during vulnerable moments. It reminds them that they are not alone. When participants feel seen, heard, and respected, trust grows. And trust is one of the foundations of high-quality care.

Diversity is one of CenterLight’s core values. Our team reflects the cultures and languages of the New York community and the older adults we serve at our eleven sites. In fact, CenterLight staff members speak more than 25 languages and dialects. This helps us understand the needs of our participants and enables us to provide care as unique as they are. It helps us build relationships that go beyond medical care and create a sense of comfort that makes our participants think of us as their second family and our centers as a second home.

Different Perspectives Make Us Stronger

Healthcare is constantly evolving, and the challenges we face require more than one way of thinking.

Creative and effective ideas often come from teams made up of people with different backgrounds and perspectives. Diversity doesn’t only encompass culture; it also includes diversity in expertise. It fosters teamwork and encourages innovation, creativity, and collaboration. It allows us to approach challenges with open minds and find solutions that are thoughtful, innovative, and inclusive.

The PACE model of care lends itself to diversity. Each participant receives care from a team made up of different disciplines -- like pieces of a puzzle coming together to provide all the services they need.

Every voice at CenterLight contributes to the bigger picture. Whether someone is part of the care team or works in administrative positions, each person brings valuable insight that strengthens the care we provide.

Inclusion Creates Belonging

Diversity is about more than representation. To us, inclusion means fostering an environment and a culture where our employees feel safe sharing their ideas, experiences, and perspectives. It means recognizing that every team member has something meaningful to offer.

When employees feel supported and connected, that sense of belonging extends to our participants, their caregivers, our care partners, and the New York community.

One Mission, Many Voices

What makes CenterLight special is not that we all come from the same place or share the same experiences. What makes us special is our shared commitment to caring for others.

Every voice, every story, and every perspective add something valuable to the fulfillment of our mission: to provide care that enriches the lives of those we serve and helps them continue to live safely and independently in their own homes.

Click here to learn about careers at CenterLight.

About the Author

This blog post is written by David Silva, Chief Administrative Officer at CenterLight Health System. David has been working at CenterLight for more than 10 years and oversees Human Resources, Marketing, Information Technology, and Parkchester Enhancement Program (PEP) for Seniors, a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community in Bronx, New York.

In his own words:

"At CenterLight, I believe our strength is our teamwork. We work together to provide high quality care, and each of us is committed to meeting our participants’ needs with respect, dedication, and compassion."

H3329 Diversity_NoPOInfo
Updated May 27, 2026

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Credentials matter, especially in healthcare. Degrees, licenses and certifications are essential to ensure expert, high quality care. But while many people evaluate healthcare choices based on credentials alone, they don’t tell the full story of what makes care truly exceptional.

That’s where PACE comes in. From medical care to social support, CenterLight’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) brings together the missing pieces older adults need to live independently at home and in the community.

Trusted Expertise, Proven Experience

Many older adults have complex medical and social needs, and PACE teams bring clinical expertise, geriatric experience and seasoned judgment to every care plan.

By working together and communicating effectively through regularly scheduled meetings, they are able to identify and understand barriers and close gaps in care. The staff is also required to stay current and encouraged to pursue continued professional development through ongoing training, continuing education and regulatory updates, ensuring participants receive high-quality care. Our goal is to meet each individual's emotional, social, psychological and spiritual needs.

A Mission-Driven Workplace

For more than 40 years, CenterLight Healthcare has been caring for New Yorkers from diverse backgrounds. CenterLight PACE is the largest not-for-profit program of its kind in the nation with locations throughout the New York Metro area.

Our workforce reflects the communities we serve — speaking more than 75 languages and dialects — while understanding and appreciating cultural nuances.

Our values:

• Integrity
• Creativity
• Diversity
• Caring
• Accountability
• Approachability
• Availability

And we know that our employees are at the heart of exceptional care.

Click here to learn about careers at CenterLight.

About the Author

This blog post is written by David Silva, Chief Administrative Officer at CenterLight Health System. David has been working at CenterLight for more than 10 years and oversees Human Resources, Marketing, Information Technology, and Parkchester Enhancement Program (PEP) for Seniors, a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community in Bronx, New York.

In his own words:

"At CenterLight, I believe our strength is our teamwork. We work together to provide high quality care, and each of us is committed to meeting our participants’ needs with respect, dedication, and compassion."

H3329 BeyondCredentials_NoPOInfo
Updated February 10, 2026

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Aging well isn’t just about doctor visits and prescriptions. It’s about staying connected to the community and being able to manage everyday needs. For many older adults with complex health conditions, coordinating care, managing appointments, and handling everyday activities can become difficult over time. Programs that bring these supports together in one place can help reduce that burden.

That’s where CenterLight Healthcare’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) comes in, offering a support system built around the unique needs and preferences of older adults.

All the Care You Need

CenterLight PACE serves adults aged 55 and over who have Medicaid and/or Medicare, need more than 120 days of community-based long-term care, and live in their service area.*

The organization’s mission is to provide individualized care that enriches the lives of those they serve and helps them age in place.

Their care team — which includes, but is not limited to, doctors, nurses, therapeutic recreation specialists, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, and dietitians — works together to provide all the care their participants need. Their services include medical care, prescription medications, vision and dental care, socialization and recreation activities, rehabilitation, home care, transportation to and from medical appointments and the PACE center, and more. In addition, participants have access to the CenterLight open gym as well as their Day Health Center, where they can enjoy nutritious meals and therapeutic recreation activities.

By organizing care through one program, CenterLight PACE aims to reduce unnecessary hospital visits and help participants continue living in their homes and communities rather than transitioning to nursing facilities.

The “My Needs Card:” Supporting Everyday Life

Beyond these services, CenterLight PACE recognizes that practical, everyday needs matter, including groceries, household essentials, and more. CenterLight’s “My Needs Card” gives an extra layer of support, helping ensure that participants thrive with independence.

Every month, CenterLight PACE participants receive $220 (no rollover)** to spend on items that support quality of life. Instead of worrying about small but essential expenses, participants can use the card to support their routines and personal preferences, including stocking the kitchen and covering household essentials.

The My Needs Card is also part of CenterLight’s commitment to preventive care and overall well‑being. Participants have opportunities to earn an additional $30 for each completed wellness action (up to $360 per year) by taking steps that support long‑term health, such as getting recommended vaccinations or completing annual dental and vision exams.

Since CenterLight PACE already covers prescription medications and medically necessary diabetic supplies, the My Needs Card can be used for the things that make everyday life more manageable and enjoyable. Eligible purchases include food, toiletries, over‑the‑counter items, utility bills, fitness memberships, and transportation for non‑medical needs. The card is accepted at major retailers as well as thousands of local stores, giving participants flexibility to shop where they feel most comfortable.

The My Needs Card reflects CenterLight PACE’s belief that aging well means feeling supported, respected, and in control of daily choices. 

Supporting Body, Mind, and Spirit

With older adults facing more challenges in a changing healthcare environment, CenterLight PACE is an all-in-one solution that supports the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. By combining expert medical care with social connection, community support, and added flexibility through the My Needs Card, CenterLight PACE empowers their participants to live safely and confidently in their own homes. It’s more than just healthcare. It’s a community of care built around each participant’s unique healthcare journey.

If you would like more information, you can visit their website at www.centerlighthealthcare.org or call 1-888-681-PACE (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

*Click here for a full list of eligibility requirements.

**Any unused monthly “My Needs Card” benefit amount expires and does not roll over to the next month. However, earned wellness rewards can be used until the end of the year. The “My Needs Card” does not substitute for required or already provided Medicaid and/or Medicare covered services under PACE. The Interdisciplinary Team determines medical necessity.

H3329 MyNeedsCard Approved 04012026

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The body’s endocrine system plays an important role in regulating essential functions through hormones such as insulin, which helps control blood sugar, melatonin (which supports healthy sleep), and growth hormones that influence overall wellness. As we age, changes in hormone levels are common and can contribute to health conditions that require ongoing care and monitoring.

Hormonal/Endocrine Disorders

CenterLight PACE provides comprehensive care for participants living with conditions such as:

• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Diabetes
• Hypo/Hypethyroidism
• Renal Failure
• Dialysis

A Team to Support Hormonal Health

At the CenterLight Healthcare Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our goal is to manage our participants' health and help them continue to live safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

The strength of CenterLight Healthcare PACE lies in the skill and dedication of our care team, which includes, but is not limited to, doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and therapeutic recreation specialists. Each participant receives personalized care according to their needs. For those managing hormonal or endocrine conditions, care is coordinated by the CenterLight PACE team and may include services from our extensive network of specialty providers. We also have a team of pharmacists who help with proper management of medications.

Services to Support Hormonal Health

Care for participants with hormonal or endocrine disorders may include a combination of services provided both at the CenterLight PACE Center and at home.

At CenterLight PACE, we take a whole‑person approach to hormonal health—providing coordinated, compassionate care that supports both medical needs and everyday well‑being. By combining clinical expertise with personalized services, we help participants manage their conditions with confidence while continuing to live comfortably and independently at home.

সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE ব্যক্তিদের ভালভাবে বাঁচতে, সুস্থ থাকতে এবং স্বাস্থ্যসেবা সংক্রান্ত সুনির্দিষ্ট সিদ্ধান্ত নিতে সাহায্য করার জন্য সঠিক স্বাস্থ্য-সম্পর্কিত তথ্য প্রদান করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উপাদান তথ্য কঠোরভাবে শিক্ষামূলক. আমরা সুপারিশ করি যে ব্যবহারকারীরা তাদের যত্নের বিষয়ে তাদের চিকিৎসা প্রদানকারীর সাথে পরামর্শ করুন।

About the Author

Patricia Connelly serves as Chief Operations Officer at CenterLight Healthcare. Inspired by her mother who is a retired registered nurse, Patty built her career around a passion for caring for others. When asked what she enjoys most about working in healthcare, Patty shares that engaging with the participants who rely on CenterLight for their care is the most rewarding and fulfilling part of her role.

In her own words:

“It is inspiring to hear their stories and to know that we make a meaningful difference in their lives." 

H3329 Blog_HormonalHealth Approved 03052026
Updated February 20, 2026

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Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) play a critical role in providing care to older adults who require ongoing services and supports due to illness, disability, or aging-related issues. At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, where we coordinate complex care across our participants’ physical, social, and psychological needs, compliance is not just a regulatory requirement. Rather, it is a cornerstone of high-quality care.

Compliance is often misunderstood as a set of rules to follow or a checklist to complete. In practice, it functions as a structural support system—one that protects participants, guides teams, and reinforces standards that make safe, compassionate care possible.

Safeguarding the Rights and Well‑Being of Participants

Compliance establishes safeguards to ensure that participants are receiving the services they need when and where they need it. We are entrusted with the care of older adults who are often medically fragile and socially vulnerable. It is our job to protect their rights, establish standards and strict protocols for providing timely and high-quality care, and ensure that the services they receive are aligned with their unique needs and provided with compassion and respect.

The role of Compliance includes review of policies, procedures, and thoroughly reviewing documentation of participant care, assessments, and care planning. This includes structured processes that help reduce gaps in care, make sure that services are provided based on medical necessity, and promote trust and a sense of responsibility among all members of the Interdisciplinary Team.

Strengthening Care Through Oversight, Data, and Insight

The Compliance team conducts regular audits of documentation. Reliable and timely data and reporting enable the team to identify trends and implement care plans using the big picture—which can only be seen with complete participant records. It facilitates communication and accurate care planning, thus benefiting the participants and the quality of care they receive.

Audits establish checks and balances within the organization. Regularly reviewing operational practices provides an objective way to identify risks, inconsistencies, and areas of improvement before they negatively affect participants. Compliance audits function as a proactive tool to strengthen internal controls, support ethical decision making, and help maintain integrity of care delivery systems.

Preventing Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

Financial integrity directly supports care continuity. With PACE programs being funded through Medicaid and Medicare, Compliance monitoring facilitates proper stewardship of resources by working with teams across the organization. We aim to ensure billing accuracy, provider documentation, clinical review, appropriate provision of services, and more.

Compliance also helps shape provider network adequacy and credentialing processes. In coordination with the Provider Relations Department, the Compliance team ensures that the organization is maintaining a network capable of delivering high-quality, coordinated services. With thousands of providers in the network, an effective compliance program helps uphold ethical standards and minimize fraud, waste, and abuse.

Building a Culture of Compliance

Regulations alone do not create quality, culture does. At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, we work together to foster clear policies and accessible procedures, ongoing staff training, transparent data reporting, strict non-retaliation and open-door reporting of issues, and cross-department collaboration. Our organizational values include integrity, creativity, diversity, caring, accountability, approachability, and availability—and we strive to apply these values in everything we do.

When everyone in the organization understands that compliance’s goal is to advocate for participants’ wellbeing and support them in their work, they are more likely to engage meaningfully with regulatory requirements. A culture of compliance, then, can become a way of life instead of regular audits and occasional corrective actions.

Looking Ahead: Adapting Compliance for the Future of Care

As care models like PACE expand, the health industry continues to evolve, and regulatory scrutiny increases, compliance programs must remain adaptable. Technology, data analytics, and predictive risk modeling are becoming essential tools in identifying potential compliance and quality issues before they escalate.

Beyond focusing on leveraging technological advances, real-time data monitoring, integration of compliance with quality programs and care delivery, and strengthening oversight, the future of compliance and the impact it has in quality of care still depends on people. At CenterLight Healthcare PACE, we believe that an effective compliance program depends on staff integrity, buy-in, and a deep understanding of how doing things the right way affects not only organizational goals but more importantly, participant well-being.

The objective is for compliance to serve not merely as oversight, but as a strategic driver of excellence and high-quality care to those who need it most.

Every regulation, requirement, documentation standard, and audit process ultimately exists to ensure that participants receive safe, effective, and person-centered care.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Alicia Nelson-Jones, Chief Compliance Officer at CenterLight Health System.

In her own words:

“Compliance isn’t just about following regulations—it’s about doing the right thing and protecting the dignity, comfort, and trust of the people we serve. High-quality care means showing up each day with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to treat every one with compassion and respect.”

H3329 NoPOInfo ComplianceAndHighQualityCare
Updated February 13, 2026

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In healthcare, every interaction can change someone’s day, or even their life. Compassionate care starts long before a health professional meets a patient—or a participant, in the case of CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), where caring is one of our organizational values.

For more than four decades, CenterLight’s mission has always been to provide high quality care that helps older adults continue to live in their own homes. Our participants rely on us not only for medical care, but for all the services they need to thrive and age in place. Often, we become an extension of their family—a privilege and an honor that our team doesn’t take for granted.

Compassion Comes from Within

Beyond clinical expertise and professional experience, empathy, patience, and genuine compassion are essential qualities in healthcare professionals.

Skills can be learned and protocols can be mastered, but compassion comes from within. The instinct to listen, to treat every person as an individual, and to notice what is not being said does not come from degrees. Rather, it shows up in small but powerful moments, like taking extra time to explain a diagnosis, offering reassurance during a difficult time, or recognizing when a participant simply needs to feel seen and be heard.

That’s why we strive to look not just at resumes. We listen for stories that reveal kindness under pressure. We look for individuals who speak about teamwork, respect, and purpose. Our goal is to uncover how someone responds when a situation is challenging, emotional, or uncertain, because that’s when compassion matters most.

We believe that when people are driven to improve someone’s quality of life, they bring the full strength of their expertise to the work.

Building a Culture of Caring

When compassionate people work together, it creates an environment where empathy is the norm, not the exception. In the PACE model, where a full care team made up of various disciplines provides services to participants, it is especially important for staff to support one another, communicate more openly, and share a deep sense of responsibility.

This organizational culture is especially evident when you hear about the experiences of those we serve. Just walk into one of CenterLight’s PACE centers and witness their interactions with staff. Speak with participants and you will hear how CenterLight saved their lives. In one instance, for example, the son of one of our participants even wrote a song dedicated to and in appreciation of the nurse who takes care of his mother.

The Heart of PACE

PACE is about more than healthcare. It’s about helping older adults live safely and independently in their communities for as long as possible while honoring their life experiences, preferences, cultural traditions, and unique needs. This requires more than expertise. It requires heart.

A person’s experience and credentials are vital to providing high quality care and positive healthcare outcomes. But what’s even more important is how they use their profession to make a difference in the lives of others.

Click here to learn about careers at CenterLight.

About the Author

This blog post is written by David Silva, Chief Administrative Officer at CenterLight Health System. David has been working at CenterLight for more than 10 years and oversees Human Resources, Marketing, Information Technology, and Parkchester Enhancement Program (PEP) for Seniors, a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community in Bronx, New York.

In his own words:

"At CenterLight, I believe our strength is our teamwork. We work together to provide high quality care, and each of us is committed to meeting our participants’ needs with respect, dedication, and compassion."

H3329 HiringforHeart_NoPOInfo
Updated February 10, 2026

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At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our goal is to enrich our participants’ lives and provide all the care they need to live safely and independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

A Focus on the Whole Person

The PACE model centers on holistic care, recognizing health as more than medical treatment alone. It addresses the physical, emotional, social, and psychological needs of older adults while coordinating services under one roof and eliminating fragmented care. The focus is on the whole person, not just symptoms or diagnoses. For our participants, this integrated approach is especially important, as multiple chronic conditions, mobility challenges, and social isolation often overlap.

A Team-Based Approach

Each CenterLight PACE participant is supported by an interdisciplinary team that includes, but is not limited to, doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, dietitians, and therapeutic recreation specialists.

The care team works together to share insights, adjust care plans as needed, and ensure that participants receive the care they need when they need it. It is important to note that not only do they meet regularly as a team, they also meet with those we serve and/or their caregivers for regular assessments and to ensure that they are an active participant in their own care.

• This approach ensures that medical, emotional, and social factors are considered together, not in isolation.
• Coordination of services under one program provides a complete picture of the participant’s health.
• This enables effective preventive care, reduces duplication of services, prevents negative medication interactions, and minimizes unnecessary hospitalizations.

Addressing Physical Health

CenterLight Healthcare PACE has locations across New York City, Westchester, and Long Island. At our PACE Centers, participants have access to:

• Medical and nursing care on-site
• Physical and occupational therapies
• Open gym
• Exercise programs and wellness activities that support mobility, strength, and balance

Holistic care extends beyond the walls of our PACE centers.

• Depending on their needs, participants may receive home care services.
• Caregivers are also supported through education, respite services, and guidance.
• Participants have access to a large network of community primary care providers and specialists.
• They receive necessary medications, vision and hearing services, and anything else that they need.*
• Participants do not have to worry about transportation to and from medical appointments and the PACE centers, as this is provided as part of their care.

Focusing on Mental Health, Social Connection, and Community

Holistic care recognizes that an individual’s mental and emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants receive social work services, which may include counseling and referrals to behavioral health. The goal is to address conditions such as depression, anxiety, and memory concerns early to help improve participants’ overall quality of life and functional independence.

Social isolation can have serious health consequences for older adults. CenterLight PACE participants have access to our Day Health Center, which provides opportunities for social interaction through group activities, recreational programs designed according to their cultural traditions and personal preferences, and peer engagement. These connections foster a sense of belonging and purpose, which can be just as important as medical care.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Support

CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants who attend our PACE centers are provided with meals tailored to dietary needs. For all our participants, our dietitians provide nutrition counseling to support chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Upon enrollment, CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants receive a My Needs Card with a monthly amount that can be used to purchase basic needs such as food, groceries, toiletries, over the counter items, and utilities.

Care as Unique as Our Participants

Holistic care demonstrates what’s possible when healthcare is designed according to the person’s unique needs. Instead of reacting to illness and aging, CenterLight PACE proactively supports wellness, independence, and meaningful living.

*As determined by the Interdisciplinary Team.

**Any unused monthly “My Needs Card” benefit amount expires and does not roll over to the next month. However, earned wellness rewards can be used until the end of the year. The My Needs Card does not substitute for required or already provided Medicaid and/or Medi­care covered services under PACE.

***Rewards can be earned by completing eligible actions such as vac­cinations, preventative screenings, advance directives, and more. See the My Needs Card catalog for details.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tara Buonocore-Rut, President and Chief Executive Officer at CenterLight Health System.

In her own words:

"My passion for leading healthcare organizations to provide high quality services to those who need them springs from my personal experience with eldercare. I believe in providing care that you’d want your own loved ones to receive. To be able to do this, it is imperative to see things from the perspective of compassion, caring, and kindness. With more than two decades of leadership experience in this industry, I truly believe that PACE is one of the nation’s best-kept health care secrets."

H3329 Blog_HolisticCare Approved 02062026
Updated February 2, 2026

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It was a beautiful morning, and CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Seneca Day Health Center participants were excited for their trip to the aquarium.  It was an opportunity to observe stunning marine creatures in the museum’s breathtaking exhibits.

Meanwhile, participants from our Flushing PACE site are still talking about their day at the Botanical Garden—where they enjoyed perfect weather, fresh air, and colorful scenery. Seneca participants, on the other hand, are looking forward to the next time they reconnect with their inner child and bond with their Flushing peers at Dave and Buster’s; and our Bronx participants are excited for the next time they go on a trip to City Island.

পূর্ববর্তী 1of16 পরবর্তী

These are just examples of trips CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants enjoy. In addition to more than 100 activities on site each month, we also take them on field trips throughout the year. Whether at the PACE center learning new things, or at fun and educational locations chosen based on their interests, every day is a chance for adventure!

Why are field trips part of CenterLight PACE’s Therapeutic Recreation programming?

Field trips provide a variety of benefits for older adults, including:

• Opportunities for socialization. When older adults interact and share new experiences with their peers, their risk for social isolation is reduced. Field trips provide opportunities to interact with others, helping improve their wellbeing. In addition, having something to look forward to, like going to a museum with friends, helps promote mental and emotional wellness.

• New experiences and participating in activities one enjoys can stimulate cognitive function. Whether going to a place they have never been before, learning new things, or discussing new ideas, field trips are a fun way to keep one’s mind sharp.

• Most field trips can encourage physical activity. For example, walking around a museum of their choice or playing a game provide opportunities for exercise and help with mobility. Taking a stroll at the Botanical Garden, for example, not only encourages movement—it is also a chance to enjoy fresh air.

Diverse Interests, New Possibilities

The CenterLight PACE Therapeutic Recreation (TR) team understands that each participant is unique. TR specialists design activities that consider the diverse cultural backgrounds and varied preferences of those we serve. Field trips aim to bring participants together, offer a chance for adventure, provide shared experiences that they will enjoy, and even introduce them to something new, opening them up to interests they didn’t have before.

Visit our Facebook page to view photos from trips and other events/programs for our participants.

এই ব্লগ পোস্টটি লিখেছেন ক্যাথলিন কিগান , সেন্টারলাইট হেলথকেয়ার PACE-এর থেরাপিউটিক রিক্রিয়েশন সার্ভিসের ডিরেক্টর।

H3329 FieldTripBlog Approved 05272025
Updated 04162025