ELKINS — In a remarkable achievement that underscores its commitment to providing exceptional care for older adults, Davis Medical Center (DMC) has been awarded Exemplar Status by the Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program. DMC is the only West Virginia hospital to reach the Exemplar level. The designation recognizes the medical center’s dedication to meeting the unique healthcare needs of older patients and its success in implementing evidence-based practices to enhance their care experience.

“Davis Medical has designed a program and an environment that recognizes the unique needs and care for older patients,” said Kim Haher, RN, NICHE Coordinator. “Because more than 70% of our inpatient population is aged sixty-five and older, we invested in the education, training and resources necessary to improve outcomes and quality of care for older patients.”

Achieving Exemplar Status illustrates the health system’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the needs of older patients.

“We are incredibly proud of our care team for taking this program to the highest level of achievement possible,” said Haher.

According to Haher, DMC joined NICHE at the “Member” status in 2017. In 2018, they achieved “Senior Friendly” status, and now, in 2024 they reached Exemplar, which is the highest level achievable.

“Nurses are at the forefront of caring for our older patients,” Haher added. “They provide medical care, emotional support, advocacy, and coordination of care. They have created an environment at Davis Health System where older patients feel valued, respected, and well cared for.”

Haher said Davis Medical expanded the program’s reach by including a multidisciplinary care team in the training and education. “I am so proud of the providers, discharge planners, physical therapists, pharmacists, nutritionists, volunteers, and the Emergency Department for their participation. I need to thank Administration and the Davis Health System Foundation for their support.”

“The leadership and staff of Davis Health System have demonstrated a tremendous ability to meet the needs of older adults,” said Mattia J. Gilmartin PhD, RN, FAAN, Executive Director of NICHE. “Their capacity to bring together geriatric nursing resources and support to enhance care marks them as a leader in the field and signals their resolve to provide high-quality, person-centered care for older adults.”

The positive impact of DMC’s NICHE program extends beyond the hospital walls and into the community, where older adults and their families benefit from the improved care experience. By implementing age-friendly practices and evidence-based interventions, the hospital is helping to improve outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance the overall quality of life for older patients.

The NICHE community includes more than 350 members across the globe. Of the 350, only 77 members, including Davis Medical, have earned Exemplar status.