IBX News

Washington Regional's Emergency Department has received the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) from the American College of Emergency Physicians. This accreditation highlights the department's commitment to implementing policies and procedures that cater to older patients' needs, aiming to enhance their health outcomes.

Megan Lundquist, BSN, RN, who manages operations at Washington Regional's emergency department, emphasized the importance of this accreditation. "Older adults are more likely to need to visit the emergency department, and they often have multiple chronic conditions and physical challenges," she said. "As an accredited senior-friendly emergency department, older patients can have peace of mind knowing Washington Regional is ready 24/7 with the expertise to provide optimal care."

The GEDA program outlines specific criteria for both clinicians and administrators. These include improved staffing and education tailored towards geriatric care, policies focused on transitioning care from the emergency department to other settings, quality improvements, and standardized approaches addressing common geriatric issues.

Birch Wright, Chief Operating Officer at Washington Regional, acknowledged that "emergency care is not one size fits all." He stated that "older people often have specific needs that an accredited geriatric emergency department is better able to meet." Wright further explained that achieving this designation aligns with Washington Regional's mission to improve community health and demonstrates a commitment to high standards of care for older adults.

Currently holding a bronze Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation, Washington Regional’s Emergency Department stands as one of only three hospitals in Arkansas with this recognition.