Ask the Expert — Top Questions Referral Partners Ask About PACE

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In this installment of CenterLight’s Ask the Expert series, Nidia Nieva, Director of Business Development, answers common questions about the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) and explains how referral partners can connect older adults and families with coordinated care and support.

What is your goal as a business development professional?

My goal is to build trusted partnerships that help connect people with the right care and support. By helping community partners, providers, and agencies understand CenterLight PACE, we can identify those who may benefit and make a meaningful difference in their lives. I aim to help providers learn that PACE is more than a Medicaid Managed Long Term Care plan and that it provides complete, all-inclusive care.

What are the frequently asked questions you receive from referral partners, and how do you address them?

How does PACE help older adults remain safely in the community?

PACE brings together home care, transportation, medication management, therapies, meals, personal care, and other supports around each participant’s needs. By identifying and addressing concerns early, the care team can help prevent gaps in care and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. Just as importantly, PACE supports independence and meaningful connections in the community participants call home.

What role does the interdisciplinary care team play?

CenterLight PACE offers an all-inclusive customized plan carried out by a dedicated team that includes, but is not limited to, medical providers, nurses, registered dietitians, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, and therapeutic recreation specialists. Together, these health professionals work with the participant and their caregiver to help them continue to enjoy living safely in the community they love.

How does the referral and enrollment process work?

It begins with a conversation about the individual’s needs and living situation. Our team then explains the program, coordinates eligibility and clinical assessments, reviews coverage, and helps the individual and family make an informed choice. Enrollment is voluntary.

What information is helpful to include when making a referral?

Include the person’s contact information, preferred language, living situation, caregiver contact, medical and daily living needs, current services, insurance, and reason for referral. Share information securely and with appropriate permission.

Can participants keep their current doctors or specialists?

Participants must get care from providers who are part of CenterLight’s provider network. We encourage individuals to contact us regarding any questions about our provider network and next steps of enrollment.

How does PACE support caregivers and families?

CenterLight PACE coordinates care and handles everything participants need to remain living in the communities they call home, giving families support and peace of mind.

On a personal note, why did you choose to work in healthcare?

I chose healthcare because I wanted to do meaningful work centered on relationships and helping people. Whether I am connecting a provider to a resource, helping a family find support, or simply being someone they can count on, I know my work can make a difference.

Any closing thoughts?

This work is ultimately about people. The trust we build can connect someone to life-changing care, support, and dignity. To me, success means creating relationships and partnerships that make a meaningful difference.

*Visit our Care Services page for more information on eligibility requirements. This information is for providers and referral partners.

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Last Updated September 28, 2026