Newberry, SC — Newberry Health is proud to announce that its Emergency Department has achieved Level 3 Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). This national recognition highlights Newberry Health’s commitment to delivering high-quality, specialized care for older adults in the community.
The GEDA program, supported by The Gary and Mary West Health Institute and the John A. Hartford Foundation, recognizes emergency departments that meet rigorous standards for geriatric care. Accreditation signals that Newberry Health has implemented best practices designed to address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of older patients.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our team to providing thoughtful, patient-centered care for older adults,” said Dr. Todd O’Neil, Emergency Department Physician at Newberry Health. “From enhancing our clinical protocols to ensuring we have the right equipment and training in place, we are focused on improving outcomes and the overall experience for our aging population.”
Newberry Health’s achievement was made possible through the leadership and collaboration of an interdisciplinary team, including Dr. Todd O’Neil, Katie Hare – Emergency Department Director, and colleagues across the organization. Their efforts ensure that the Emergency Department aligns with national guidelines for geriatric care, including enhanced screening for conditions such as delirium, dementia, and fall risk.
The accreditation program includes three levels, similar to trauma center designations, and outlines more than two dozen best practices. Achieving Level 3 accreditation demonstrates that Newberry Health has successfully implemented many of these measures, including interdisciplinary education and the availability of geriatric-appropriate equipment and resources. The GEDA program builds on years of progress in emergency medicine.
“This accreditation sends a clear message to our community that Newberry Health is committed to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of older adults,” said CEO of Newberry Health, John Snow. “We are proud to provide care that is both compassionate and aligned with national best practices.”