Mon Health Medical Center Upgrades Emergency Department Features for Patient Safety

Vandalia Health’s Mon Health Medical Center recently made upgrades to its Emergency Department to ensure a safer experience for all, most notably, its geriatric patients.

Mon Health Medical Center is Bronze Accredited by the American College of Emergency Physicians as a Geriatric Emergency Department (GED). This accreditation certifies the GED is a program with equipment, protocols, and procedures implemented by a team working together for senior-friendly care. The entire GED includes adjustments specifically designed to meet the unique needs of older patients.

West Virginia is ranked third in the nation among the states with the largest percentage of residents aged 65 or older. Due to the complexity of treating older patients and their specific health needs, in 2021, Mon Health Medical Center implemented the GED program to better serve these patients. This program was supported by a generous donation of $350,000 by Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary.

In support of the GED program, the Mon Health Environmental Services Team, supported by Crothall Healthcare and funds from the Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary, redid the flooring in the Emergency Department and added special grain to ensure a non-skid surface, improving safety and minimizing risk for geriatric patients. In addition, upgrades were made by the Mon Health Facilities Team to the Emergency Department’s walls and aesthetics of the rooms to provide a refreshed and clean look.

"We take patient safety very seriously at Mon Health and are dedicated to maintaining a clean and welcoming facility," said Dr. Krystal Atkinson, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Nursing Officer of Mon Health Medical Center and Chief Nursing Executive of Mon Health System. "These upgrades not only address the aesthetic aspect of our hospital but also significantly improve safety, particularly for our older patients."

Mon Health Medical Center and other Vandalia Health hospitals remain committed to continuously improving their facilities and services, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care.

“The health and safety of our patients are always at the forefront of our mission,” said Dr. Mary Edwards, Chief Medical Officer of Vandalia Health. “These improvements to our Emergency Department represent a proactive step in anticipating the unique challenges of geriatric care. By enhancing our environment to better serve seniors, we’re empowering our clinical teams to deliver care that is not only responsive but also respectful of the complexities that come with aging.”