ELKINS, W.Va. – Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center has once again achieved Exemplar status for its Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program, earning a redesignation that reflects the hospital’s sustained commitment to providing quality, specialized care for older adult patients.
The NICHE Exemplar designation is the highest level of recognition awarded by the program and highlights Davis Medical Center’s continued success in implementing evidence-based, system-wide initiatives that improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience for older adults.
Davis Medical Center first achieved NICHE designation in 2016 and reached Exemplar status — the program’s highest level — in 2024. This redesignation marks the hospital’s second time earning Exemplar recognition and reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing geriatric care through evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Older adults often have unique needs during hospitalization, and NICHE helps ensure we approach their care in a thoughtful, evidence-based way,” said Kim Haher, BSN, RN, Gero-BC, NICHE Coordinator at Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center. “This redesignation reflects the dedication of our nurses, providers and interdisciplinary teams to creating an environment where older patients feel supported, respected and safe throughout their care experience.”
Davis Medical Center submitted a comprehensive report of its NICHE program activities for review by NICHE faculty. Based on established criteria, the program was recognized for its sustained commitment to excellence and innovation in geriatric care. As an Exemplar NICHE member, the hospital will continue advancing interdisciplinary, patient centered practices that support improved clinical outcomes and quality of life for older adults.
“Achieving this level of recognition requires engagement across every area of patient care,” said Diana Landsverk, RN, BSN, MBA, Chief Administrative Officer of Vandalia
Health Davis Medical Center. “Our nursing teams continuously work to strengthen the way we care for older adults through education, collaboration and evidence-based practices that support both patients and families.”
“As the population we serve continues to age, programs like NICHE play an increasingly important role in helping patients remain healthier and more independent,” said Jeff Goode, Executive Vice President, Vandalia Health. “This redesignation reflects the hospital’s long-term commitment to investing in care models that improve the experience and outcomes of older adults across the region.”
“The leadership and staff of Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center have demonstrated a tremendous ability to meet the needs of older adults,” said Mattia J. Gilmartin, PhD, RN, FAAN, Executive Director of NICHE. “Their capacity to bring together geriatric nursing resources and support to enhance care marks them as a leader in the field and signals their resolve to provide quality, person-centered care for older adults.”
For more information, visit VandaliaHealth.org.
