Georgetown, California (November 29, 2023) – Marshall Medical Center, in collaboration with UC Davis Health, has unveiled an innovative pilot program set to revolutionize elderly care in Georgetown. Partnering with AKT Development and backed by a generous $175,000 grant, the initiative aims to harness home-based healthcare technology to enhance the well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and empowering them to manage their health conditions from the comfort of their homes.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Georgetown:
Georgetown residents, like many rural communities nationwide, grapple with prevalent healthcare disparities, particularly among the elderly. Dr. Martin Entwistle, Associate Chief Medical Officer and VP Population Health and Ancillary Services at Marshall Medical Center, highlights the program’s potential to tailor technology solutions to address the specific health needs of the Georgetown community. This approach could serve as a blueprint for improving the health outcomes of older adults not only locally but also across the region and the nation.
Data-Driven Approach to Health Disparities:
With the backing of AKT Development’s substantial funding, the project aspires to arm healthcare providers, patients, caregivers, and policymakers with tangible data supporting the utilization of technology in managing healthcare disparities. Chronic diseases, mobility issues, and socioeconomic barriers to care will be among the focal points, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by Georgetown residents.
Aging in Place with Technology:
Lori Parlin, County Supervisor for the district, emphasizes the program’s potential to assist residents in aging in place. By incorporating technology capable of direct two-way communication between providers and patients, the initiative aims to streamline healthcare management. This includes check-ins, medication refills, appointment reminders, and assistance with transportation, ensuring holistic care for participants.
Towards a “Community for Health and Independence”:
Wendy Thomas, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors for El Dorado County, lauds the collaboration between Marshall Medical Center, AKT Development, and UC Davis Health. She sees the innovative pilot as a crucial step towards helping residents live longer, healthier lives in a place they cherish. AKT’s role in understanding aging in place is pivotal, with plans for a future “Community for Health and Independence” development by UC Davis Health and AKT. This development aims to pioneer technology-enabled homes designed with healthcare in mind.
UC Davis Health’s Evaluative Role:
UC Davis Health plays a pivotal role in evaluating the project’s effectiveness through the Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, led by Dr. Courtney Lyles, PhD. The assessment, conducted with human-centered design approaches, aims to identify opportunities and technologies that offer the most promise in developing a healthy living community. Lessons learned from the pilot will inform best practices and potential challenges for the planned residential community.
Meeting the Needs of an Aging Population:
Organizers emphasize the urgency to cater to the growing aging population, projecting a 78% increase in the Sacramento region’s adult population aged 60 years and older in the next decade. The pilot’s insights will guide the development of the planned residential community, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of an aging demographic.
Anticipated Launch and Future Prospects:
Currently in the preliminary stages of staff identification and training, the formal launch of the pilot program is anticipated in early 2024. As Georgetown becomes the focal point for this pioneering initiative, eyes are on Marshall Medical Center, UC Davis Health, and AKT Development as they pave the way for a transformative approach to elderly care. Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking endeavor.
