DUALS Act 2024: A Game-Changer for Senior Care

Healthcare staff talking to an older adult, showcasing senior care

Access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) programs has been an ongoing issue for those in need of senior care. From complexities in enrollment to administrative burdens, there are many causes of the disparities in healthcare access for seniors.


One recent initiative set to make a change is the DUALS (Delivering United Access to Lifesaving Services) Act of 2024, which aims to enhance care coordination and health outcomes for seniors under Medicare and Medicaid coverage and improve access to those health programs.


The DUALS Act of 2024 is a significant step towards addressing the healthcare needs of dual eligibles. By expanding access to PACE and enhancing its flexibility, this act has the potential to significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable population.


MedVision is ready to take part in this initiative and provide its services to make PACE programs more accessible, but first, let's understand what the DUALS Act of 2024 entails.


Take Your Senior Care To The Next Level!

Explore MedVision

What is the DUALS Act of 2024?

The DUALS Act of 2024, a legislative proposal introduced in the United States Senate, aims to improve access to PACE programs for dual eligibles.


These individuals, covered by Medicare and Medicaid, often face challenges in navigating the healthcare systems of both programs and accessing comprehensive care.


The DUALS Act of 2024 proposes several promising provisions to address these issues.


Provisions and Implications of the DUALS Act of 2024

Improved Access to Comprehensive Care: The bill mandates that all states offer the PACE program to eligible individuals. Expanding access to PACE ensures that PACE is available as an option for dual-eligible beneficiaries nationwide.


Flexible Enrollment: The DUALS Act of 2024 allows PACE organizations to enroll participants anytime rather than restrict them to specific dates. This provision reduces barriers to accessing care and improves healthcare outcomes.


Extended Eligibility: The legislation extends PACE eligibility to Medicare-eligible individuals under 55. This expansion extends access to care for a broader range of individuals with complex healthcare needs, potentially improving outcomes for this population.


Streamlined Application Process: The bill removes quarterly restrictions for submitting new PACE organization applications. This streamlining of the application process aims to facilitate the establishment and expansion of PACE programs, raising access to care.


Prescription Drug Plan Choice: The DUALS Act of 2024 ensures that Medicare-only PACE program enrollees can choose prescription drug plans under Medicare Part D. This empowers participants to make healthcare decisions that align with their needs and preferences.


The Benefits of the DUALS Act of 2024 to Senior Care

A doctor holding the hands of a senior patient

Senior care is the range of services and support that aims to address the needs of older adults. The implementation of the DUALs Act of 2024 can benefit the delivery of senior care in many ways:


Enhanced Care Coordination

The DUALS Act of 2024 requires states to implement integrated health plans for dual-eligible beneficiaries. These plans prioritize care coordination, letting seniors receive the proper care at the right time and setting. This can prevent gaps in care, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, and improve seniors' health outcomes.


Support for Aging in Place

PACE allows seniors who require ongoing care to remain in their homes while receiving the necessary support. By expanding access to PACE and allowing enrollment at any time, the DUALS Act of 2024 supports seniors' need to maintain their independence for as long as possible.


Preventive Healthcare

With the DUALS Act, more seniors can access preventive measures to maintain glowing health. Senior care providers deliver preventive healthcare measures to help seniors stay healthy and active.


This may include regular health screenings, vaccinations, and health education to promote healthy lifestyle choices and prevent the onset of chronic conditions. 


Peace of Mind

For senior citizens and their families, access to healthcare services provides peace of mind, knowing that professional support is accessible thanks to the DUALS Act. This can reduce stress associated with aging-related challenges, ensuring seniors receive the required care and assistance.


Read More: The Role and Benefits of Capitation in PACE Programs


Impact on Healthcare Organizations

Opportunities for Collaboration and Integration

The DUALS Act of 2024 stresses the importance of care coordination for dual-eligible beneficiaries. Senior care organizations need to work closely with other communities and providers to ensure seamless care coordination for PACE enrollees.


Increased Demand for PACE Services

Thanks to the mandated expansion of eligibility and an optimized enrollment process, organizations that offer PACE services may experience increased demand for their programs. This may lead to growth in those organizations or the rise of new ones to accommodate the increasing number of eligible participants.


Adjustment to Regulatory Changes

Healthcare organizations in senior care must adjust to the regulatory changes introduced by the DUALS Act of 2024. This may involve updating policies and procedures, implementing new technologies, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.


Financial Implications

Implementing the DUALS Act of 2024 can result in healthcare organizations facing financial implications as they implement the necessary changes or expand their services. They may need to assess their economic sustainability and funding to support their operations.


Read More: How to Pick the Best Software For a PACE Program


How MedVision Can Lend A Hand

The requirements and mandates of the DUALS Act of 2024 can be achieved with the help of innovative solutions such as MedVision's QuickCap v7.0. With wide-ranging solutions and tools, healthcare organizations can achieve the following:


Comprehensive Health Plans: This platform enables healthcare organizations to develop and implement wide-ranging health plans tailored to the unique needs of dual-eligible beneficiaries. 


Enhanced Patient Experience: QuickCap's patient portal allows beneficiaries to access care plans, schedule appointments, and communicate with their care team, fostering greater engagement and satisfaction.


Data Integration: Advanced analytics tools enable healthcare organizations to leverage data-driven insights to optimize care delivery for dual-eligible beneficiaries.


Compliance Management: QC7's robust features can help organizations adhere to regulatory requirements and standards, ensuring adherence to best practices in care delivery.


Is your organization ready to comply with the DUALS Act of 2024? Partnering with a trusted software provider such as MedVision is essential to promptly provide high-quality care to dual-eligible beneficiaries. 


So what are you waiting for? Contact us today and learn more about how we can help you with your PACE Program and optimize it to its full potential under this new initiative!


Change Your Pace Program with QuickCap!

Explore More

Recently published articles

November 13, 2024
MedVision partners with Intus Care to empower PACE programs with better data integration, improved care delivery, and operational efficiency.
TPA - Care coordination software
By Jadys Diez October 30, 2024
Discover how TPAs optimize care coordination with MedVision’s QuickCap platform, enhancing efficiency and patient outcomes.

Keep in touch

Subscribe to get the latest update


Trending topics

ACO PC Flex Model
April 26, 2024
Learn about the new ACO Model coming this 2025 and how MedVision is ready in helping organizations achieve this initiative.
a provider receives a patient during a health visit
February 16, 2024
Find out how accurate patient attribution rates are driving better patient care coordination. Get tips on how to improve patient alignment. Read on to learn.

Share your insights on social media

Upcoming events and company news

Hand holding a colorful hot air balloon symbolizing the SIIA National Conference 2024
August 29, 2024
SIIA National Conference 2024 is where leaders shape the future of the self-insurance landscape. Join MedVision as we exhibit innovative solutions for TPAs.
VIP Discussion to Upgrade PACE Programs
By Jadys Merill Diez June 6, 2024
Explore the future of PACE Programs at our Healthcare Roundtable. Network with leaders and discover groundbreaking technologies.
NPA Summer Conference
By Jadys Merill Diez June 4, 2024
Join PACE leaders at the NPA Summer Conference in Grand Rapids for networking, innovative sessions, and industry insights. Don't miss this premier event!
APG Spring Conference
May 10, 2024
The APG Spring Conference 2024 will be held in San Diego from May 29-31, focusing on shaping a sustainable and value-based healthcare system. More details here.
Share by: