All four AdventHealth Cancer Services locations in Western North Carolina have been officially recognized as Age-Friendly Health Systems – Committed to Care Excellence, reflecting a sustained commitment to meeting the unique needs of patients age 65 and older.

This national recognition, awarded through the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative led by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement in partnership with The John A. Hartford Foundation, affirms that AdventHealth Cancer Services consistently delivers evidence-based care guided by the 4Ms Framework: What Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility. These practices help ensure care is safe, coordinated and aligned with what matters most to older adults and their families. 

“Age-Friendly care begins by listening and honoring what matters most to each individual,” said Anna Hicks, MD, Administrative Director of Age-Friendly Services for AdventHealth Hendersonville. “By embedding the 4Ms into cancer care, our teams are helping older adults feel supported, respected and more confident as they navigate treatment.”

The Age-Friendly Health System designation recognizes health care organizations that reduce harm, improve communication and provide care consistent with patients’ goals and values — supporting healing of the body, mind and spirit.

This recognition reflects the daily work of Cancer Services physicians, nurses and team members across all four locations who remain focused on delivering care that meets older adults where they are and supports their whole health.

AdventHealth Hendersonville is the first and only hospital in Western North Carolina to participate in the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative. Joining the initiative in 2020, AdventHealth implemented Age-Friendly programs in the hospital and emergency department.

The commitment to care for our community then expanded into our doctor’s offices, with all AdventHealth Medical Group offices earning designations at Age-Friendly Health Systems – Committed to Care Excellence.

To learn more about the Age-Friendly Initiatives at AdventHealth in WNC, visit AdventHealthNC.com or call 855-774-LIFE (5433).

Source: AdventHealth