Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to PACE
Leslie Kaz, RHU (CA Lic #0B32530), September 2026
In short
Many people who join PACE are already in a Medicare Advantage plan, including Medi-Medi (dual) plans. PACE isn't limited to one enrollment season, so a person who qualifies can join during the year. Coverage starts on the first day of the month after the PACE organization receives the signed enrollment agreement. Once PACE starts, it becomes the person's Medicare coverage, including prescription drugs.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.
How the switch works
- Check the ZIP. PACE is only available in certain service areas. (Source: DHCS)
- Meet the PACE team. The PACE organization does a home visit and assessment, and the State confirms the person needs a nursing-home level of care. (Source: CalPACE)
- Sign the enrollment agreement. Enrollment takes effect on the first day of the next calendar month after the PACE organization receives it. (Source: 42 CFR 460.158)
- PACE becomes your coverage. PACE covers all Medicare-covered services and your prescription drugs. You can't keep a separate Medicare drug plan: joining one while in PACE ends PACE enrollment. (Sources: Medicare.gov; 42 CFR 460.154)
What changes when you leave a Medicare Advantage plan for PACE
- Doctors: care comes from the PACE organization's doctors and network instead of your plan's network, other than emergencies. (Source: CANHR)
- Drugs: prescriptions come through PACE, not a separate Part D plan. (Source: Medicare.gov)
- Extras: extra benefits that came with your old plan (for example, a gym membership or a spending card) end with that plan. PACE covers what the care team decides you need.
- Costs: what you pay depends on Medicare and Medi-Cal status. See our PACE costs guide.
Before you switch, ask
- Which PACE center would I use, and how does transportation work?
- Are any of my current doctors or specialists able to stay involved?
- Which month would PACE coverage start?
- What will I pay each month?
- How do I leave PACE later if I change my mind?
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to wait for Open Enrollment to join PACE?
No. PACE enrollment isn't tied to Medicare's fall Open Enrollment. If you qualify, coverage starts the first day of the month after the PACE organization receives your signed enrollment agreement.
Can I keep my Medicare Advantage plan and join PACE?
No. PACE becomes your Medicare coverage, including prescription drugs.
What if I'm in a Medi-Medi plan?
People with both Medicare and Medi-Cal can join PACE if they qualify. PACE then provides both their Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits.
Can I go back to a Medicare Advantage plan later?
You can leave PACE at any time; disenrollment takes effect the first day of the following month. Leslie can explain your options for coverage after PACE.
Thinking about switching? Leslie is a licensed Medicare agent who works with both Medicare plans and PACE. Check your ZIP, then request a callback at no cost to you.
About the Author
Leslie Kaz, RHU is a licensed California insurance agent specializing in Medicare and PACE programs, operating through Syndicated Insurance Agency, LLC (CA License #0B32530). Leslie works as an independent advisor with three PACE partners — WelbeHealth, myPlace Health (SCAN), and InnovAge — and guides families through ZIP matching and enrollment coordination at no cost to the family.
Compensation. Guidance is at no cost to families. If enrollment occurs through this agency with a partner PACE organization, the agency may be compensated by that organization — not by the family.
Service area. Availability of PACE depends on ZIP code, program service area, and final eligibility as determined by the PACE organization and the State of California.
Final eligibility and cost are determined by the PACE organization and the State of California. This website does not guarantee $0 cost or enrollment.