Learn how PACE programs can address social determinants of health (SDOH) to improve participant outcomes. Discover workforce strategies, care coordination, and flexible staffing solutions that empower holistic, person-centered care.

The healthcare industry increasingly recognizes that social determinants of health (SDOH) —conditions in which people are born, live, work, and age—play a pivotal role in patient outcomes. For Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), addressing SDOH is not just a compliance measure, it’s a critical component of delivering holistic, high-quality care. At Cross Country Workforce Solutions Group (WSG), we understand that the right workforce strategy can empower PACE programs to tackle SDOH effectively, ensuring better health outcomes for participants and a stronger operational foundation for providers.


 <h2>Understanding Social Determinants of Health in PACE</h2>
 Social determinants of health encompass a broad range of factors, including:
<ul> 
 <li>Economic stability – access to adequate income, housing, and food.</li>
 <li>	 access and quality – literacy, health education, and training programs.</li>
 <li>	Healthcare access and quality – availability of primary care, preventive services, and care coordination.</li>
 <li> Neighborhood and built environment – safe housing, transportation, and community resources.</li>
 <li> Social and community context – social support networks, caregiver access, and community engagement.</li>
</ul>
 
 

 PACE programs serve older adults with complex care needs, often managing multiple chronic conditions. Addressing SDOH within these programs ensures participants can thrive not only medically but socially, economically, and emotionally.

<h2>The Role of Workforce in Addressing SDOH</h2>
A skilled, adaptable workforce is essential to identifying and mitigating SDOH challenges in PACE programs. Key areas include:



1.	Care Coordination and Case Management
Nurses, social workers, and care coordinators can assess SDOH risks, such as transportation barriers or food insecurity, and develop individualized care plans. A workforce that is trained to recognize these factors can proactively address issues before they escalate.

 Onsite and Community-Based Support
PACE staff often interact directly with participants in day centers, homes, and communities. Professionals who understand local resources can connect participants to food programs, housing assistance, transportation, and social services.

3.	Flexible Staffing Models
Contingent staffing solutions allow PACE programs to scale care teams quickly in response to participant needs. This flexibility ensures that there are always enough qualified staff to deliver person-centered care while addressing SDOH comprehensively.

4.	Education and Training
Continuous workforce development, focused on cultural competency, health literacy, and SDOH awareness, ensures that PACE teams can engage participants effectively, identify risk factors, and promote healthier behaviors.


<h2>Workforce Solutions for PACE Programs</h2>
Cross Country WSG specializes in staffing solutions tailored to PACE programs, helping organizations build teams that can manage SDOH impacts effectively. Our solutions include:
<ul>
 <li> Interim clinical leadership to oversee program strategy and operations.</li>
 <li> Per diem and contract staffing for nurses, social workers, and care coordinators.</li>
 <li>	Training programs to enhance SDOH awareness and patient-centered care.</li>
 <li> Rapid workforce scaling to meet participant demand and maintain continuity of care.</li>
</ul>

 Social determinants of health are critical drivers of outcomes in PACE programs. A workforce strategy that prioritizes SDOH awareness, flexibility, and training empowers PACE organizations to deliver holistic care, reduce hospitalizations, and improve quality of life for participants. Partnering with a workforce solutions provider like Cross Country WSG ensures your PACE program has the right people, in the right roles, at the right time—helping you address SDOH effectively while maintaining operational excellence. <a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/wsg/contact-us?leadSource=Blog&&campaignCode=PACEBLOG" target="_blank">Connect with us today!</a>

Addressing Social Determinants of Health in PACE Programs: A Workforce Perspective