Program Assists Seniors Facing Steep Healthcare Costs

An Oklahoma City program called Valir Pace helps at-risk seniors access healthcare amid soaring costs, reports KFOR . Valir Pace uses funds typically provided to Medicare, but operates more efficiently. The expense also is much lower than what Medicare would normally cover for a senior to live in a nursing community. "Twenty-six percent is the average hospitalization rate that a Medicare beneficiary would experience," said Valir Place Vice President Brandy Baily. "The hospitalization rate for participants that are engaged in the Valir Pace program is 3 percent." Seniors who qualify for nursing community assistance under Medicare are frequently eligible for Valir Pace programs.