Boston Medical Center’s geriatrics program: a national leader in elder care
Boston Medical Center’s (BMC) geriatrics program has been named one of the 50 best in the country in this year’s rankings from U.S. News & World Report, based on its leadership in Alzheimer’s care and treatment and recognition from the National Institute on Aging for exceptional patient care.
BMC is one of two Alzheimer’s disease centers in Massachusetts. The equity-led academic medical center was also recognized for six additional high-performing specialties: cancer, cardiology, heart and vascular surgery, gastroenterology and GI surgery, neurology and neurosurgery, pulmonary and lung surgery, and urology. Additionally, BMC was designated high performing in conditions and procedures for both heart and kidney failure.
“It definitely reflects the work that we have put in to move this program forward,” said Hollis D. Day, MD, MS, MHPE, who is chief of geriatrics at Boston Medical Center. “We really try to give the best care we can in a way that has more to do with just their symptoms — we want to treat the patient wholistically.”
U.S. News & World Report’s best hospitals specialty rankings identify hospitals that excel in treating complex, high-risk cases and rare conditions. Hospitals that receive a “best” ranking have excellent clinical outcomes, expert patient care, and high opinions from peer physicians.
BMC’s nationally recognized geriatrics program serves a patient population over 70 with a new model for geriatric care that emphasizes timely diagnosis, equitable and expert intervention, and patient education. The program increases access to essential care and holistically integrates patient care and caregiver support.
The BMC Geriatrics Home Care Program has a rich history of serving Boston’s elderly population. Over the years, it has adapted to advancements in medical care and changing patient demographics, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of home healthcare. BMC credits the program’s success to its patient-centered approach, which prioritizes the holistic well-being of its patients.
“Our home program has really set us apart,” said Dr. Day. “It’s 100 degrees out, and our team is in the homes of the patients who may not have air conditioning. They’re doing the hard work to give our patients more dignified treatments from the comfort of their own homes.”
The BMC Geriatrics Home Care Program provides a wide range of medical services tailored to the unique needs of elderly patients. These services include routine medical check-ups, chronic disease management, medication management, and specialized care for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
“Our care is multifaceted. We look at the patient holistically, not just by their medical condition. By learning about their stories and families, we can give the patients better care,” Dr. Day emphasized. This holistic approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses not only their physical health but also their emotional and social well-being.
BMC’s home care program has been nationally recognized for its innovative model of senior care and is constantly evolving in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our team is really committed to forwarding the program in many ways. Our motivations to move forward are both research-based and patient-based. We really look to listen to what the patients like and dislike and move from there in addition to our advanced research,” added Dr. Day.
As one of New England’s most prominent academic medical centers, BMC serves a diverse patient population. The program’s recognition from the National Institute on Aging further underscores its exceptional patient care and innovative practices.
The geriatrics program also strongly emphasizes supporting and empowering caregivers, who play a crucial role in the health and well-being of elderly patients. The program offers caregiver education, resources and support services to help caregivers manage their responsibilities effectively and maintain their health and well-being.
A commitment to patient-centered care is at the heart of BMC’s geriatrics program. This means that every aspect of the program is designed with the patient’s needs and preferences in mind. The program’s medical professionals work closely with patients and their families to develop personalized care plans that improve quality of life and promote independence.
“Competing with other hospitals is not our focus. Our focus is on giving our patients well-rounded care. Especially in our unit, with geriatric people, we’re really focused on ensuring that they feel like people with stories and values and not just patients. They are a really strong demographic that deserves respect and dignity. That’s what we try to do,” Dr. Day explained.
