If you're searching for "PPEC in Pennsylvania" and not finding much, there's a reason. Pennsylvania doesn't call it PPEC. The state uses PECC, which stands for Pediatric Extended Care Center. Different abbreviation, same type of care: licensed medical daycare for children with complex health needs, fully covered by Medicaid.
Pennsylvania's PECC program has been running since 1999, making it one of the longest-standing programs of its kind in the country. Here's everything you need to know about how it works, who qualifies, and how to find a center near you.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania uses the name PECC (Pediatric Extended Care Center), not PPEC. The service is the same: medical daycare for children with complex needs.
- The program has been active since 1999, established under Act 54 of the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
- Children from birth through age 21 are eligible.
- Services are covered by Medicaid at no cost to families.
- PECCs are regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Home Health.
- Centers across the state serve children in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Scranton, the Lehigh Valley, and surrounding areas.
Why Does Pennsylvania Call It PECC Instead of PPEC?
Most states use the term PPEC (Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care). Pennsylvania chose a slightly different name when it created its program in 1999: Pediatric Extended Care Center, or PECC.
The difference is only in the name. PECC centers in Pennsylvania provide the same core services as PPEC centers in other states: skilled nursing, therapy, developmental activities, and caregiver training for families. If you've researched what a PPEC is and wondered whether Pennsylvania has something similar, the answer is yes. It's just called PECC here.
This naming difference can make it harder to find information online. If you're searching, try both "PECC Pennsylvania" and "PPEC Pennsylvania" to get the full picture.
What Is a PECC?
A PECC (Pediatric Extended Care Center) is a licensed, non-residential facility that provides medical daycare for children who are medically dependent or technology-dependent. Think of it as skilled nursing care combined with developmental programming in a safe, supervised setting.
Pennsylvania law defines a PECC as any facility that serves six or more medically or technologically dependent children who are not related to the facility's operators. That distinction matters because it separates licensed PECCs from informal or family-based care arrangements.
Services provided at Pennsylvania PECCs include:
- Skilled nursing care (medication administration, tracheostomy care, ventilator management, G-tube feedings, catheter care, seizure monitoring)
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy based on each child's individual needs
- Developmental programming with individual and small-group activities focused on play skills and peer interaction
- Comprehensive plan of care developed, implemented, and monitored for each child
- Caregiver training so parents and guardians feel confident managing their child's care at home
- Nutritional support including meals and snacks during the care day
The goal is to give children expert medical attention during the day while also providing the social and developmental experiences that help them thrive. For families, it means reliable daytime care so you can work, attend school, or care for other children, knowing your child is safe. Learn more about why families choose medical daycare.
Who Qualifies for PECC in Pennsylvania?
Your child may be eligible for PECC services in Pennsylvania if they meet these criteria:
- Age: Birth through 21 years old (Pennsylvania covers a wider age range than many states, which cap at 20)
- Medical need: The child must be medically dependent or technology-dependent, requiring skilled nursing care
- Medicaid enrollment: The child must be enrolled in Pennsylvania Medicaid
- Physician prescription: A doctor must prescribe PECC services before admission
- Parental consent: A parent or legal guardian must provide written consent
Pennsylvania's program covers children through age 21, which is one year longer than most other states. That extra year of coverage can make a real difference for families of older teens and young adults who still need daily medical support.
Not sure if your child qualifies for Medicaid? Many families of medically complex children are eligible even if household income seems too high. Pennsylvania's Medicaid program considers the child's medical needs, not just family income. Talk to your child's doctor or a PECC center directly. They can help you navigate the process.
How PECC Is Regulated in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's PECC program was established by Act 54 of 1999, formally called the Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers Act. The Pennsylvania General Assembly created the law to develop and enforce licensure, health, and safety standards specifically for pediatric extended care centers.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Home Health oversees licensing and regulation. Every PECC must:
- Obtain a license from the Department of Health (application fee: $500)
- Submit architectural plans to the Division of Safety Inspection for life safety approval
- Post a required bond and maintain liability insurance
- Follow staffing requirements including registered nurses and trained child care technicians
- Maintain administrative, personnel, and care policies approved by the department
This regulatory framework has been in place for over 25 years, giving Pennsylvania one of the most mature oversight structures for pediatric medical daycare in the country.
How to Find a PECC Center in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has PECC centers operating in several regions across the state. Here's how to find one near you:
Active PECC providers in Pennsylvania include:
- Frankie's World in Philadelphia (Northern Liberties), operating since 2006. Open Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM. Phone: (215) 763-0151.
- Trinity Child Care Center in Scranton, operated by Saint Joseph's Center. Open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Phone: (570) 342-8379.
- Aveanna Healthcare locations in Harrisburg and Wyncote (Montgomery County). Harrisburg center open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Phone: (717) 480-4698.
- Pediatric Home Service in Coatesville (Chester County). Phone: (610) 380-9960.
- A Place to Grow, LLC in Boothwyn (Delaware County). Phone: (610) 390-9845.
- Pediatric Stars PPECC, LLC in the Lehigh Valley area, serving children ages 6 weeks to 6 years.
This is not a complete list. New centers open, and availability changes. For the most current directory of licensed PECC facilities in Pennsylvania, use these official resources:
Official resources:
- PA Department of Health PECC Facility Page for licensing information, application forms, and program overview
- PA Health Care Facility Directory for a searchable list of all licensed PECC facilities and their current status
- PA DHS Provider Directory to find Medicaid-enrolled PECC providers by location
- Division of Home Health contact: ra-dhhomehealth@pa.gov | 2525 N. 7th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
If you're not sure where to start, contact the Division of Home Health by email. They can confirm which centers are currently licensed and accepting new patients in your area.
PECC vs. Home Nursing: Which Is Right for Your Family?
Many Pennsylvania families weigh PECC against private duty nursing (PDN), where a nurse provides care in your home. Both are valid options covered by Medicaid. Here's how they compare:
Neither option is universally better. Some families use both: PECC during the day and home nursing for evenings or weekends. Your child's doctor and care team can help determine the right combination.
Read more about why families choose PPEC over private nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PECC stand for in Pennsylvania?
PECC stands for Pediatric Extended Care Center. It's Pennsylvania's name for what most other states call PPEC (Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care). The service is the same: licensed medical daycare for children with complex health needs, covered by Medicaid.
Is PECC free for families in Pennsylvania?
Yes. PECC services are covered by Pennsylvania Medicaid at no cost to eligible families. There are no copays or deductibles. If your child is enrolled in Medicaid and has a qualifying medical condition, PECC is fully funded.
What ages does Pennsylvania PECC cover?
Pennsylvania covers children from birth through age 21. This is one year more than most other states, which typically cap eligibility at age 20.
How do I enroll my child in a PECC?
Start by talking to your child's pediatrician or specialist about a PECC referral. You'll need a physician's prescription for PECC services and active Medicaid enrollment. Contact a PECC center near you directly, and they can walk you through the enrollment process, including helping verify your child's Medicaid eligibility.
How is PECC different from regular daycare?
Regular daycares are not equipped for children with complex medical needs. PECC centers are staffed by pediatric nurses and therapists who provide skilled care like trach suctioning, G-tube feedings, medication administration, and seizure monitoring. Children also receive therapy and developmental activities tailored to their abilities.
Can my child attend PECC and receive home nursing?
Yes. Many families in Pennsylvania use PECC during the day and private duty nursing at home during evenings, overnight, or weekends. Your child's care team can help coordinate both services through Medicaid.
This article was reviewed for accuracy as of March 2026. PECC regulations and center availability change over time. Always verify current eligibility and provider status with the Pennsylvania Department of Health or contact the Division of Home Health at ra-dhhomehealth@pa.gov.
Looking for PPEC or medical daycare in another state? View our complete state-by-state PPEC guide to find programs near you.