There’s a Lot to Love About CenterLight Healthcare PACE
When people talk about their experience at CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), they often mention the medical care they receive, the rehabilitation services that help them regain or maintain function, or the support that helps maintain their independence. But if you ask participants what they love most about PACE, you may hear about something more; the friends they’ve made, the activities they look forward to and the hobbies they’ve discovered along the way.
Alongside questions about daily life at PACE, many people also have questions about how it fits with open enrollment. In the last few months of the year, when health plans share information about their services and coverage options during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), people have choices to consider. In this installment of our "Ask the Expert" series, Hector Hernandez, Vice President of Business Development and Intake Management, describes PACE and aims to clarify any confusion about how AEP relates to PACE.
What is PACE?
PACE stands for Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. It brings together medical care, rehabilitation services and everyday support so participants can continue living in the place they call home. At CenterLight PACE, participants have access to a coordinated team of professionals who work together to support their health and well-being.
What is AEP?
AEP, or Annual Enrollment Period (also known as "open enrollment"), is for people who want to join or change Medicare Advantage and Medicare prescription drug plans, and it runs each year from October 15 to December 7. Please note:
- PACE is a separate program, so you don’t have to wait for AEP to join.
- Even though PACE is not part of AEP, it is a great option for older adults who are eligible, and they can enroll at any time during the year.
- If you’re already a PACE participant, you don’t need to do anything during AEP to keep your care.
What is a typical day at the PACE Center like?
On a typical day, participants may enjoy a healthy breakfast and conversation with friends, followed by a favorite activity or group exercise. There may be time to explore a new hobby, visit the open gym or simply enjoy being part of a community. There’s always something happening at CenterLight PACE, from celebrating holidays like Diwali and Thanksgiving to shooting pool, playing mahjong, making music and staying fit with group exercises. Depending on their care plan, participants can also see their nurse, physical and rehabilitation therapists, dietitian, or social worker.
What does “all-inclusive care” really mean?
It means everything is connected. PACE covers all the care and services participants need, including, but not limited to, primary care, home care, prescription drugs, therapy and transportation to the PACE center and medical appointments. That’s all-inclusive care. That’s PACE.
What makes CenterLight Healthcare PACE different?
One of the things that sets us apart is the personalized support participants receive from all members of their care team. Our care team gets to know our participants, their preferences and goals, and works with them and their family to create a plan that fits them. Beyond the care itself, participants find a community of friends, activities and experiences that make each center special.
Our 11 PACE Centers across New York provide a welcoming place where participants can enjoy nutritious meals, engage in therapeutic recreation activities, and connect with their nurses, rehabilitation therapists, and other members of their care team, all under one roof.
For more information, please view our "How is CenterLight Healthcare PACE Different from Other Plans" brochure by clicking here.
Who can join PACE?
You can join PACE if you are 55 or older, live in our service area, need 120 days or more of long-term home health care services and supports, and are able to live safely in the community. Click here for more information on eligibility.
Why does my choice matter to CenterLight?
We know older adults have choices in health plans, and we’re grateful to the participants who have chosen CenterLight Healthcare PACE to be part of their care and their community. Ultimately, our mission is to help enrich the lives of those we serve. We call them "participants" because they are active participants in their care. They receive personalized care based on their needs, healthcare goals, individual preferences, and cultural traditions.
About the Contributor
Hector Hernandez is the Vice President of Business Development and Intake Operations at CenterLight.
In hIS own words:
"I chose healthcare because I wanted to do work that makes a difference in people’s everyday lives. What I value most about working in this field is the opportunity to build meaningful partnerships and collaborations that help connect people with the care and resources they need to maintain their health and independence. In Partnership Development and Intake Operations, we spend a great deal of time strengthening relationships with providers, community organizations, and healthcare partners, but those relationships are ultimately about improving the lives of the people we serve. Knowing that our collective efforts can help participants, their families, and their communities access the support they need is what keeps me connected to the purpose behind what we do."
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Updated November 4, 2026