In the Press...
Star Ledger Story on Smith Medicare PACE Bill...'House clears bill by N.J.'s Chris Smith to expand seniors' medical care'
The U.S. House on Wednesday cleared legislation to expand a federally funded health care program for seniors.
The bill, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th Dist.) would make more individuals eligible for the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, which provides health care and social services at community facilities to senior citizens who otherwise would have to be placed in nursing homes. The measure, which earlier passed the Senate, now goes to President Obama for his signature. It would open the program to seniors who need continuous care but do not need to be in nursing homes, people with disabilities who otherwise would need to be housed in institutions, and those under 55 with Alzheimer's or similar diseases. "PACE has a proven track record of success in New Jersey and around the country and our legislation will enable more seniors to receive the all-inclusive care they need," Smith said. RELATED: U.S. House passes International Megan's Law sponsored by N.J. Rep. Chris Smith Some 900 senior citizens in New Jersey are enrolled in programs in Hamilton, Camden, Vineland and Jersey City, Smith said. They receive services such as medical treatment, occupational therapy, and dental care. A new program opened earlier this month on the site of the former Patterson Army Hospital at Fort Monmouth. |