The bill introduced in the 136th General Assembly aims to facilitate the expansion of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Ohio. It mandates the Department of Aging to issue a request for proposals by December 31, 2026, inviting entities interested in becoming PACE organizations in counties currently not served by the program. Proposals must be submitted within ninety days of the request, and the Department retains the authority to expand the PACE program through additional proposals outside this process. All new PACE organizations established after the effective date of the bill will receive the same rates as existing organizations.

To qualify as a PACE organization, entities must meet several requirements, including providing a feasibility study, holding a valid provider agreement, and demonstrating experience in delivering healthcare services to frail older adults. The Department will review proposals and determine qualified entities by June 30, 2027. Once approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), these organizations must begin providing services within two years of receiving approval. The Director of Aging is also authorized to adopt rules to implement the provisions of this bill.