The AGS works across six strategic priority areas to advance its mission and vision.
Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Healthcare
We are committed to taking purposeful steps to address racism in health care, given its impact on older adults, their families, and our communities. In fall 2020, AGS added a statement to our vision for the future: “We all are supported by and able to contribute to communities where ageism, ableism, classism, homophobia, racism, sexism, xenophobia, and other forms of bias and discrimination no longer impact healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for older adults and their caregivers.” The Society work across its strategic priorities to advance this vision. Our current major focus is on the intersection of structural racism and ageism in health care.
Health Professionals
We’re committed to expanding the geriatrics knowledge base through initiatives that promote basic, clinical, and health services research. Through our efforts to connect with professionals across health care, we’re also working to increase exposure to principles of geriatrics excellence for all health professionals who care for older adults. Our anchors for these endeavors remain the wealth of publications, clinical tools, guidelines, and recommendations we develop on an ongoing basis; the research we promote and support through the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society and other venues; and the opportunities we facilitate at our Annual Scientific Meeting.
Supporting the Geriatrics Workforce
The tools and insights championed by AGS members are essential to the future of high-quality care for older adults, and so, too, is our ability to share those tools with all health professionals. One way we make that possible is by offering travel stipends for trainees via our AGS Health in Aging Foundation. Stipends have supported hundreds of trainees so they can attend our Annual Scientific Meeting and learn more about geriatrics expertise.
Advancing Equitable Public Policy
To realize a future when every older American receives high-quality, person-centered care, we’re working in the present to address the shortage of geriatrics healthcare professionals; to strengthen primary and preventive care services; to impact the changing payment landscape; and to expand research and healthcare options that can lead to higher-quality care.
Educating the Public
Through the AGS Health in Aging Foundation, we advance our commitment to maintaining the health, independence, and quality of life of all older people by meeting older individuals where they live. Countless older adults and caregivers have visited HealthinAging.org for reliable, trustworthy information on health and care—all authored by our member experts.