Northern Nevada HOPES is expanding specialized care for older adults with the addition of geriatrician Dr. Steven Phillips.
According to Northern Nevada HOPES, the organization began evaluating its care for older adults in 2025 and has since adopted Age-Friendly Health System principles. HOPES is also working toward full recognition through the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.
Phillips will begin providing consultations this fall for HOPES patients with complex health needs. He will also help train HOPES providers in geriatric care.
The organization's approach uses the “4Ms” framework: What Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility. HOPES said its age-friendly care also considers behavioral health, medication management, mobility, transportation, food access and social connection.
“Older adults deserve healthcare that recognizes their unique needs and goals,” said Dr. Faith Whittier, Chief Medical Officer at Northern Nevada HOPES. “Before we hired Dr. Phillips, our team had already committed to building a more age-friendly model of care. We have been developing clinical workflows, strengthening care coordination, and integrating best practices throughout the organization. Adding geriatric expertise allows us to take that work even further and better support older adults in maintaining their health, independence, and quality of life.”
Phillips has more than 35 years of experience in geriatric medicine and has already helped HOPES strengthen older adult care workflows and incorporate the 4Ms framework.
Northern Nevada HOPES said support from the William N. Pennington Foundation, an anonymous foundation partner, and the Nell J. Redfield Foundation is helping advance the age-friendly care initiative.
