Why Medicaid Matters
For seniors like the Goodmans, Medicaid means more than just healthcare—it means dignity, security, and a better quality of life.
William Goodman is alive today because of the care and support he receives through PACE and Medicaid. A U.S. Army veteran who served as a paramedic in France, Mr. Goodman is a longtime resident of the greater Philadelphia area where he worked for decades in the construction industry operating heavy equipment. But as he and his wife, Mrs. Goodman, grew older, they faced mounting health challenges and financial burdens—until PACE changed everything.
How Medicaid and PACE Made the Difference
Mr. Goodman has atrial fibrillation (Afib), a condition that causes his heart to beat irregularly, sometimes dangerously so. When his condition worsened, doctors recommended therapy, and he spent time in a skilled nursing facility to recover. However, he found that the environment didn’t meet his needs, as therapy was sometimes inconsistent. “I had very little therapy—sometimes none at all,” he recalled.
After a difficult stay, a social worker suggested PACE, a Medicaid-covered program. At first, the Goodmans were unsure what to expect. But when a team of nurses and aides arrived at their home, they realized this was different.
“They swooped in—wall-to-wall nurses,” Mr. Goodman laughed. “At first, I was confused, but then I thought, ‘They wouldn’t spend all this money to come see me unless they really cared.’”
With PACE, the Goodmans no longer had to worry about the high cost of medical care. “Before Mercy LIFE (PACE), we had hefty medical bills. We were paying for medications and procedures out of pocket,” Mr. Goodman explained. “Now, we don’t have to worry—PACE covers everything. When we need prescriptions, they’re mailed to us or sent with a driver the next day.”
The Impact of Having Medicaid—And the Risk of Losing It
Today, Mr. Goodman’s health has improved significantly. He no longer struggles with depression, and he feels stronger thanks to the care and community at the PACE center. “I used to go four days a week; now I just go once a week because I’m doing so much better,” he shared.
Losing Medicaid and PACE coverage would be devastating for the Goodmans. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here,” Mr. Goodman said. “Medicaid pays for everything. Without it, we’d be drowning in bills again.”
For seniors like the Goodmans, Medicaid means more than just healthcare—it means dignity, security, and a better quality of life. “The biggest factor? They treat you with dignity. I’m spoiled,” he said with a smile.
Thanks to Medicaid and PACE, the Goodmans can focus on enjoying their time together instead of worrying about healthcare costs. And for Mr. Goodman, that means one thing: “I feel better. I have people who care about me. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.”
Find out if you or an aging loved one qualifies for one of our PACE programs.