Implementation of a geriatric emergency department program using a novel workforce

Over 1 million Veterans ≥65 years old visit the emergency department (ED) at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) each year and account for over 40% of all annual ED visits, well above the national average of 18% at non-VA medical centers [1]. Caring for older adults in the ED presents unique challenges such as pol ymorbidity, impaired cognition, and functional impairment [2]. Comprehensive Geriatric ED programs that employ multi-touch interventions have been described and are associated with less decline in functional status and decreased post-ED acute care utilization [2,3].

Source: The American Journal of Emergency Medicine - October 23, 2020 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Jill M. Huded, Albert Lee, Colleen M. McQuown, Sunah Song, Mustafa S. Ascha, Denise M. Kresevic, Gerald E. Maloney, Todd I. Smith Source Type: research