Press Ganey today published its newest Research Note, Patient Experience in the Very Elderly: An Emerging Strategic Focus. The paper, co-authored by Press Ganey CMO, Thomas H. Lee, MD, and Deirdre Mylod, PhD, SVP of Research and Analytics, examines the clinical and strategic benefits for health care organizations creating targeted care strategies for the “Very Elderly” population (defined as patients 80 years of age and older).

Analysis of responses from more than 1.5 million patients provides detailed insights into utilization and patient experience trends among Very Elderly patients. While only 3.5% of the U.S. population is over 80 years of age, this demographic is a dominant presence in hospitals, emergency departments and outpatient practices. The Research Note also explains key findings regarding the unmet needs of this important group and shares strategies implemented by leading organizations to better address this segment’s needs.

“Most patients in this Very Elderly population claim a ‘poor’ or ‘fair’ health status and tend to have greater and more complex needs. The data suggest their needs are not being met reliably,” said Dr. Lee. “Organizations that embrace a more focused, compassionate, connected care model have the potential to reduce suffering for this very vulnerable population and mitigate the impact of age and health status on patient experience ratings.”

A copy of the Research Note, Patient Experience in the Very Elderly: An Emerging Strategic Focus, is available for download at PressGaney.com.

About Press Ganey

Press Ganey Holdings (NYSE: PGND) is a leading provider of patient experience measurement, performance analytics and strategic advisory solutions for health care organizations across the continuum of care. Celebrating 30 years of experience, Press Ganey is recognized as a pioneer and thought leader in patient experience measurement and performance improvement solutions. Our mission is to help health care organizations reduce patient suffering and improve clinical quality, safety and the patient experience. As of January 1, 2015, we served more than 22,000 health care facilities.