This recognition highlights AdventHealth Polk’s efforts to incorporate the 4Ms framework — What Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility — an evidence-based approach that makes sure care is aligned with each patient’s goals and supports their physical, emotional and cognitive well-being.

“At AdventHealth Polk, we believe every older person we serve deserves quality care that is safe and sees them fully — body, mind and spirit,” said Anna Hicks, MD, Administrative Director of Age-Friendly Services for AdventHealth in North Carolina. “This recognition reflects how our entire team listens closely to what matters most to our older adult patients and provides care that supports their independence, dignity and quality of life.”

Age-Friendly Health System Participants are organizations that have demonstrated how they are putting the 4Ms into practice in meaningful ways. The initiative, led by IHI in partnership with The John A. Hartford Foundation, the American Hospital Association and the Catholic Health Association of the United States, is designed to improve care for older adults across all settings.

At AdventHealth Polk, this work is already shaping the experience for patients and families across the community. By focusing on what matters most to each patient, carefully reviewing medications, supporting brain health and helping patients stay mobile while in the hospital, care teams are creating a more connected and personalized approach to care.

This recognition marks an important step in AdventHealth Polk’s ongoing journey to strengthen whole-person care across Polk County and surrounding communities. The organization will continue working toward the next level of recognition — Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence — by expanding its reach across the hospital and supporting more older adults with safe, evidence-based, Age-Friendly care.

“Our goal is to make care feel more personal, more connected and easier to navigate,” added Dr. Hicks. “We want every older adult we serve to feel supported at every step of their hospital stay.”