In 2016 the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at Disability Law Colorado was designated in legislation to administer the Colorado PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) Ombudsman Program. Both programs work together to protect and promote the rights of Colorado's older adults to improve their quality of life and protect them from neglect and abuse.
The PACE Ombudsman Program consists of a State PACE Ombudsman, who oversees the PACE Ombudsman program and provides direct advocacy to all PACE participants outside of the Denver metro area, and two local ombudsman who serve the Denver metro area. Together the PACE Ombudsman Program provides critical and independent advocacy to help people to navigate the complex service delivery system within PACE and ensure quality care.
Colorado's State PACE Ombudsman is Shelbie Engelking, MSW [sengelking@dev.disabilitylawco.org or 303.722.0300]
What is PACE?
The PACE program offers comprehensive medical care and social services to people who are 55 years and older and who meet nursing home level of care. The PACE model of care is a capitated service delivery and health insurance system that aims to maintain people's independence in their home or community of choice.
PACE Ombudsman Program Common Cases & Complaints
- Care Coordination – Addresses gaps in communication, difficulties with timeliness of services, communication challenges in transitions of care.
- Benefits/Access – Helps with continuity of care and access to choice of services within the PACE network.
- Enrollment/Disenrollment – Addresses delays in enrollment, financial eligibility, voluntary and involuntary disenrollment.
- Appeals/Grievances – Informs PACE participant of their appeal and grievance rights.
- Response to Service Delivery Requests – Assists participants in requesting an increase in services or different services to assure the best possible care.
