Eventus WholeHealth Provides an Integrated Approach to Geriatric Care
In today’s rapidly aging society, the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to geriatric care is more critical than ever. This approach, which combines primary care with psychiatric care, is paramount in delivering a higher quality of life for the elderly. By addressing both physical and mental health needs, facilities can offer a more holistic form of care that enhances the well-being of residents in an assisted living facility or a skilled nursing facility. In short, Eventus WholeHealth cares for the “whole” patient.
Understanding Geriatric Care Coordination
Geriatric care coordination involves the seamless collaboration of various healthcare disciplines to cater to the complex needs of elderly patients. This model is essential because it recognizes that older adults often face multiple chronic conditions that require coordinated care. By integrating primary care and psychiatric services, healthcare professionals can work together to provide comprehensive care plans that address all aspects of an individual’s health. At Eventus WholeHealth, we have a dedicated Care Coordination Team that works with the Medical Assistants, Primary Care Physicians, and the Behavioral Health Physicians to create 360° of care support for your resident.
The Role of Primary Care in Geriatric Health
Primary care serves as the foundation of geriatric health, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and management of various health conditions. It emphasizes continuity of care and builds long-term relationships between patients and healthcare providers. In an integrated care model, primary care physicians coordinate with specialists to ensure that all aspects of a patient’s health are addressed.
The Importance of Psychiatric Care in Aging
Mental health is a critical component of overall health, yet it is often overlooked in geriatric care. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and dementia are prevalent among the elderly and can significantly impact their quality of life. Integrating psychiatric care into geriatric health services ensures that mental health issues are identified and treated promptly, reducing the risk of worsening symptoms and improving outcomes.
Outcomes-Centered Healthcare
Integrated care models have been shown to improve patient outcomes by providing more personalized and coordinated care. For seniors, this means fewer hospitalizations, better management of chronic conditions, and improved mental health. The result is a higher quality of life and increased satisfaction with the care received.
Improved Communication and Coordination
Incorporating both primary and psychiatric care into geriatric services fosters better communication and coordination among healthcare providers. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of a patient’s health are considered, leading to more effective and efficient care. It also reduces the risk of errors and duplicative tests, which can be costly and burdensome for patients.
Cost-Effectiveness
Integrated care models are cost-effective, as they streamline services and reduce the need for unnecessary interventions. By addressing both physical and mental health needs simultaneously, healthcare providers can prevent complications and reduce the overall cost of care. This efficiency benefits not only the patients but also the healthcare system as a whole.
Implementing Integrated Care in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities
Assisted living and skilled nursing facilities are ideal settings for implementing integrated geriatric care models. These facilities provide a supportive environment where healthcare providers can closely monitor and manage the health of elderly residents. Eventus WholeHealth isn’t new to implementing integrated care – when asked about the importance of integration, this is what Dr. Jennifer Rucci had to say. “Eventus WholeHealth has pioneered integrating behavioral health and primary care into long term care communities for over a decade. We have shown how patients, families, and facilities do better receiving these services from a single practice that has long established expertise in both areas of medicine. Being Better Together is core to the Eventus Difference since 2013!”
Creating Multidisciplinary Teams
Successful integration of primary and psychiatric care requires the formation of multidisciplinary teams. These teams consist of healthcare professionals from various specialties, including primary care physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and therapists. By working together, they can develop and implement comprehensive care plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Utilizing Technology for Better Care Coordination
The use of technology is crucial in facilitating communication and care coordination among team members. Electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine platforms enable healthcare providers to share information quickly and efficiently, ensuring that all team members are informed and aligned in their approach to patient care. As an organization, we utilize PerfectServe Clinical Collaboration.
Training and Education
To implement integrated care effectively, it is essential to provide ongoing training and education for healthcare providers. This training should focus on the principles of integrated care, as well as the unique needs of geriatric patients. By equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, facilities can ensure that their staff can deliver the highest quality of care. Eventus WholeHealth will offer in-service training to your facility staff as needed, we also have a robust internal education program led by Dr. Jennfer Rucci, President of the Eventus Institute for Strategic Thought & Innovation, Psychiatrist & Co-Founder.
Overcoming Challenges in Geriatric Care Integration
One of the primary challenges in geriatric care integration is the shortage of healthcare professionals with expertise in geriatrics and mental health. To address this issue, facilities must invest in training programs and incentives to attract and retain skilled professionals.
Navigating CMS Survey Changes
Healthcare facilities must navigate complex regulations changes to ensure that their services are fully compliant with CMS Survey Requirements. Just this year, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced significant revisions to Appendix PP of the State Operations Manual, with enforcement commencing on April 28, 2025. There were many areas of focus, for which specific ones require an interdisciplinary approach, including the medical director, attending physician, and both primary care/mental health advanced practice providers. When the CMS Survey updates were announced, Eventus WholeHealth immediately took action and launched a series of webinars to help facilities prepare for the upcoming changes. You can view the seminar HERE.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an integrated approach to geriatric care that includes both primary care and psychiatric care is essential for providing a higher quality of life for the elderly. By addressing the complex and interconnected needs of older adults, healthcare providers can deliver more comprehensive and effective care. Implementing this model in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities not only enhances patient outcomes but also improves the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of healthcare delivery. As our population continues to age, it is crucial that we embrace integrated care models to ensure that our seniors receive the highest standard of care.
Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of care coordination and integration? Please contact our team today!
