In today’s challenging healthcare environment, building a positive workplace culture in PACE organizations is critical to retaining staff, improving care, and reducing burnout. Learn how to foster a healthy, mission-driven team environment.

As a PACE organization, you sit at the heart of one of healthcare’s most mission-driven models—providing comprehensive, coordinated care to frail older adults who want to remain in their homes and communities. But while your program is designed around participant well-being, the success of your care model depends just as heavily on another critical component: your workforce.

 With rising workforce shortages, increasing demand for home- and community-based care, and growing burnout across healthcare roles, creating a positive workplace culture isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a strategic imperative.

<h2> Why Culture Matters in PACE</h2>
PACE teams are unique. From CNAs and social workers to dietitians, drivers, and nurse practitioners, your workforce is deeply collaborative, multidisciplinary, and participant-focused. But without a strong, supportive culture, even the most passionate employees can become overwhelmed.
A positive workplace culture can help PACE organizations: 

<ul>
 <li>Improve employee satisfaction and retention</li>
 <li> Reduce burnout and absenteeism</li>
 <li> Enhance participant satisfaction and continuity of care</li>
 <li> Strengthen recruitment efforts in a competitive hiring market</li>
 <li> Support regulatory and quality outcomes </li>
</ul>


<h2>5 Ways to Build and Sustain a Positive Workplace Culture in PACE</h2>
1. Prioritize Mission Alignment 
PACE employees are mission-driven by nature. Reinforce that connection often by sharing participant success stories, celebrating team impact, and tying daily responsibilities back to the greater purpose: keeping older adults safe, independent, and thriving in their communities.

Tip: Start team meetings with a "mission moment" or participant spotlight to inspire and energize staff.


2. Foster Psychological Safety and Open Communication
In high-touch, high-stress environments, team members need to feel safe voicing concerns, asking questions, and offering feedback—without fear of judgment or retaliation. Create space for honest communication and encourage collaboration across disciplines.
Tip: Implement regular “check-ins” or cross-team huddles to keep communication flowing.


3. Invest in Workforce Development
Retention often hinges on whether employees feel they’re growing in their careers. Offer ongoing training, mentorship, and leadership pathways that show your commitment to developing internal talent.
Tip: Partner with workforce experts who understand the unique dynamics of PACE to design tailored development tracks for roles across your program.


 4. Recognize and Reward Contributions 
Acknowledgment goes a long way in reinforcing a culture of respect and appreciation. Recognize both big wins and everyday contributions. Whether it's a formal award or a simple thank-you, meaningful recognition boosts morale and engagement.

Tip: Create peer-nominated shout-outs, “care champion” programs, or small spot bonuses to reward excellence.


 5. Leverage Staffing Support to Reduce Burnout
A stretched workforce leads to increased stress and higher turnover. Proactively engaging interim or supplemental staffing partners—especially those with experience in PACE and community-based care—can help stabilize teams and protect culture during times of high demand or transition.
Tip: Work with staffing partners who understand PACE's clinical, operational, and regulatory environment—so your team feels supported, not slowed down.


<h2>Cross Country: Supporting the Workforce Behind the Mission</h2>
At Cross Country, we understand the complex, compassionate world of PACE. Our specialized staffing and workforce solutions are designed to help PACE organizations maintain continuity, strengthen care delivery, and protect the culture that makes your work so impactful.
From leadership and clinical support to long-term workforce planning, we bring deep experience, flexibility, and heart to every partnership.

Let’s talk about how we can support your PACE organization and your people.
<a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/wsg/contact-us" target="_blank">Schedule a Conversation →</a>

Creating a Positive Workplace Culture in PACE Organizations: Why It Matters More Than Ever