Elevating care with Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation

Authored by:  
Bill Briggs, MSN, RN, CEN, TCRN, NEA-BC, FAEN
Vice President and Managing Partner 

It is estimated that the number of Americans over age 65 is growing at a rate of 10,000 per day, with an expected total of 74 million in the next decade. This population is more likely to have multiple co-morbidities, take several medications, and experience a general decline in health, including eyesight, hearing, mobility, and cognitive ability. This has led to a growing body of knowledge in the care of this vulnerable population.

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), with the support of the John A. Hartford Foundation and West Health Institute, has developed the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) to improve medical care for the 20 million seniors who visit our emergency departments annually. As of mid-2024, over 500 EDs in the United States and internationally, including most VA hospitals, have been accredited. Approximately 30% of older adults now have access to a GEDA.

Key advantages of Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation

  • Improved outcomes for geriatric patients 
  • Enhanced patient safety
  • Staff training and expertise
  • Regulatory and reimbursement benefits
  • Cost savings including reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and repeat ED visits
  • Competitive advantage and reputation
  • Community trust and engagement

Three levels of ACEP Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation

  • Level 1 (Gold) is for an ED providing a coherent system of care that targets and measures specific ED outcomes for older adults, elevating ED operations and transitions of care both to and from the ED, all coordinated to improve care for older adults. Additionally, identified physical plant enhancements aimed at improving older adult care are present.*
  • Level 2 (Silver) is for an ED that has integrated and sustained senior care initiatives into daily operations, demonstrating interdisciplinary cooperation in delivering senior services. It also includes a dedicated supervisor or director.*
  • Level 3 (Bronze) is for an ED with one or more specific initiatives designed to elevate the level of senior care, supported by appropriate personnel, training, and metrics.*

Each of these levels require an application, an accreditation fee, and may require a phone consultation or site visit. Accreditation is good for three years.

Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation is a successful method for improving geriatric emergency care and demonstrating your hospital’s commitment to the community. Optimal Healthcare Advisors can help you navigate the GEDA standards and prepare for accreditation.

Reference: ACEP GEDA Brochure