Northwest Texas Healthcare System Receives Accreditation for Emergency Department Geriatric Care
Northwest Emergency at Town Square, a Service of Northwest Texas Healthcare System, has received the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Bronze Level accreditation for Geriatric Care.
According to ACEP, populations around the world are living longer now than ever before and in the U.S. it is estimated that 10,000 baby boomers are turning 65 every day. This demographic shift brings challenges to healthcare systems as older adults visit emergency departments (EDs) at comparatively higher rates than non-seniors, often present with multiple chronic conditions, are at increased risk of polypharmacy, and suffer from complex social and physical challenges.
Seniors make contact with the healthcare system at many points – perhaps none as frequently or as importantly as the ED. The concept of a geriatric ED has developed in the past decade as hospitals recognize that one size ED care does not fit all. Older people in the ED have presentations, needs, dispositions and outcomes that are quite specific to them.
“Northwest is proud of this achievement that recognizes the care for older adults in the ED who need resources specific to them. We are committed to providing the highest standard of care,” stated Andrea Deloach, NWTHS Director of Freestanding Emergency Departments.