Championing Age-Friendly Care at Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street
The Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare for older adults, focusing on what truly matters to each individual. At Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street, this translates to a care philosophy deeply rooted in the “4Ms”:
- What Matters: Healthcare decisions are aligned with each older adult’s specific health goals and preferences. The care team takes the time to understand what is most important to the patient, ensuring that treatment plans respect individual values and priorities.
- Medications: Medication management is carefully reviewed and optimized to ensure safety and effectiveness. The center prioritizes minimizing medication burden and potential drug interactions, a critical aspect of geriatric care.
- Mentation: Addressing mental health and cognitive function is integral to the care provided. Screening for and managing conditions like dementia and depression are proactively incorporated into patient care plans.
- Mobility: Maintaining and improving physical function is a key focus. The center emphasizes strategies to prevent falls, enhance mobility, and support independent living for older adults.
By implementing these core principles, Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street ensures that older adults receive comprehensive, coordinated, and compassionate care that promotes their overall well-being and quality of life.
Specialized Services for Every Stage of Life
Beyond its age-friendly designation, Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street offers a range of specialized services designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the Indianapolis community, from adolescents to seniors:
Adolescent Program: Comprehensive Healthcare for Teens
Recognizing the unique healthcare requirements of teenagers, Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street features a dedicated Adolescent Program. This program provides a safe and confidential space for teens to access a wide array of services, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to the management of chronic conditions and urgent care needs. Services include:
- Acne treatment
- Sports-related injury care
- Menstrual health services
- Management of general illnesses
- Mental health screenings and support
- Smoking cessation programs
- Immunizations
For adolescent patients and their families seeking more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact 317.880.3535.
Center for Youth & Adults with Conditions of Childhood (CYACC): Supporting Transitions
The Center for Youth & Adults with Conditions of Childhood (CYACC) at Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street plays a vital role in facilitating a smooth transition from pediatric to adult healthcare for young people with special health needs. CYACC provides crucial in-person consultations and ongoing care coordination to support youth and their families during this significant life stage. As a federally qualified health center, CYACC is committed to accessible healthcare, offering a sliding fee discount program to ensure services are available to all, regardless of their ability to pay.
Senior Primary Care Services: Geriatric Expertise for Optimal Health
Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street provides specialized Senior Primary Care Services every Friday morning from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. During these hours, a geriatrician, a physician specializing in the healthcare of older adults, offers consultations for patients aged 65 and older. This service is designed for seniors who wish to maintain their current primary care provider within the Eskenazi Health system but desire a comprehensive health and physical examination conducted by a team with specialized geriatric expertise.
The Senior Primary Care Services team develops a personalized care plan, collaborating closely with the patient, their family members, and their primary care physician to ensure seamless and coordinated care. Referrals to this service must come from the patient’s Eskenazi Health primary care provider. Reasons for referral for established older adult Eskenazi Health patients include:
- Concerns about abuse or mistreatment
- End-of-life planning discussions
- History of falls
- Functional decline or frailty
- Home safety assessments
- Incontinence issues
- Malnutrition or unintentional weight loss
- Memory concerns
- Mobility limitations
- Management of multiple medications (polypharmacy)
Your Partner in Health and Wellness
Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street is more than just a healthcare facility; it is a dedicated partner in the health and wellness of the Indianapolis community. With its Age-Friendly Health Systems designation and specialized programs for adolescents, youth and adults with conditions of childhood, and seniors, the center is committed to providing patient-centered, comprehensive, and accessible care for individuals of all ages.
