A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons examines the efficacy of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Geriatric Surgery Verification (GSV) Program’s older-adult enhanced recovery protocol.
The GSV program is designed specifically for patients 65 and older. Its seven components are:
According to ACS, “Implementing these steps is associated with better outcomes, including reduced complications and shorter hospital stays.”
“Our review suggests that when hospitals take proactive, targeted steps, such as routinely screening for delirium and carefully reviewing medication, we can make a real difference in helping our older patients get back to what matters most to them,” stated the study’s lead author, Sarah Remer, MD, ACS clinical scholar and a general surgery resident at Loyola University Medical Center.
“This isn’t just about checking boxes,” added Dr. Remer. “This is about recognizing that older adults have unique perioperative needs. Valid and feasible steps such as making sure eyeglasses and hearing aids are available or starting a simple bowel regimen can prevent complications and improve recovery in older adult surgical patients.”
“This comprehensive review validates what we’ve seen in practice: the ACS Geriatric Surgery Verification Program provides a standardized, evidence-based approach that transforms outcomes,” stated Clifford Y. Ko, MD, MS, MSHS, FACS, ACS senior vice president, Division of Research and Optimal Patient Care. “By distilling a vast body of research into a practical protocol, we give hospitals a powerful tool to address the specific vulnerabilities of older adults, leading directly to safer care and shorter recoveries. The ACS also offers a free Geriatric Surgery Patient Checklist to help guide conversations with surgical teams and ensure high-quality, personalized care.”
Read ACS’ full article about the study, and access the full study itself here.
