Team-based, Multidisciplinary Care in the Emergency Department

Multidisciplinary care for older adults in the emergency department (ED) is endorsed by multiple national and international guidelines. There are numerous disciplines to consider including, each with different strengths and contributions, including social workers, case managers, pharmacists, physical, occupational, and speech therapists, hospice and palliative medicine teams, and the emergency deaprtment physicians and nurses themselves. The care team also extends beyond the ED walls and should include community services and the patient's family members and caregivers. There are many advantages to multidisciplinary care, including improved ED metrics, reduced length of hospitalization, and a reduction in repeat ED visits.