Fallon Health Summit ElderCare Program Provides Safe At-Home Environment for Seniors During COVID-19
NEC member Fallon Health has released new data showcasing how their senior care services combine medical care with health insurance and social support to provide families with an alternative option to placing their loved ones in a nursing home.
The report was released to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Fallon’s data shows that 92% of it’s PACE program participants are continuing to live in their homes. Because this population is particularly at-risk of contracting COVID-19, Fallon Health has retrofitted the PACE model to keep patients safe amid the ongoing pandemic. These changes include keeping PACE centers open to participants who require the day program to remain safe in the community, moving much of the care into the community including virtual check-ins and home visits, and temporarily transforming the organization’s Worcester site into a 24/7 infirmary for COVID-19 positive participants. The infirmary was open from April to June 2020.
“For 25 years, Summit ElderCare has been successful in empowering frail elders and their families in achieving their health goals and enjoying a better life,” said Richard Burke, President and CEO of Fallon Health. “PACE is built on the belief that chronic care needs are best met at home. During the current health care crisis, we have seen first-hand how flexible and durable this model of care is, and we believe its benefits provide a shining example of how patient-centered care with wrap-around services is more relevant than ever.”
The New England Council commends Fallon Health for their continued success in serving seniors during this unprecedented time. Read more from the Fallon Health press release.