Colorado pauses new PACE applications through October 2028

Colorado has paused applications for new PACE organizations and for PACE expansions. The pause started November 1, 2026 and is set to last through October 31, 2028. The memo describes no change to care for people already in PACE.

What's changing

PACE is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) put out Operational Memo OM 26-070 on November 2, 2026.

For now, HCPF will not accept applications for:

• New PACE organizations.
• Service area expansions by existing PACE organizations, including requests to add a PACE center.

HCPF says the pause lets it focus on overseeing the PACE organizations it already has, manage budget effects, and review its application process. The memo says:

"The temporary pause is scheduled to remain in effect through October 31, 2028."

That is from HCPF's OM 26-070.

Applications HCPF already received and is reviewing will keep moving. Change-of-ownership applications are still accepted. HCPF may extend, change, or end the pause early.

Who it affects (and who it doesn't)

This affects groups that want to become PACE organizations, and existing PACE organizations that want to serve a bigger area or open a new center.

It does not change care for current PACE participants. The memo describes no change to their care.

Key dates

• November 1, 2026: The pause took effect.
• October 31, 2028: The pause is scheduled to last through this date.

What you can do

1. If your family member is in PACE now, the memo describes no change to their care.
2. If you were hoping a new PACE center would open near you, ask your case manager what other programs may fit your family.
3. Keep a copy of any letter you get about PACE.

For PACE questions, email HCPF at hcpf_pace@state.co.us.