Enhanced Multidisciplinary Teams (E-MDTs) assist in fighting elder abuse across the state.
Watch this interview, and read the latest in NYSOFA's Five Questions series to discover more about this important resource within New York's aging network. Allison Granata, Assistant Director for E-MDT Initiatives at Lifespan of Greater Rochester, took time to answer some questions about the program.
What is an E-MDT and how is it structured?
An E-MDT, or Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team, is a county-based team that provides a coordinated, holistic response to elder abuse cases. E-MDTs bring together providers from various disciplines (e.g., Adult Protective Services, local Offices for the Aging, law enforcement) who provide an efficient and effective means of addressing abuse of older adults (aged 60 and older). Each E-MDT is led by a dedicated E-MDT Coordinator who accepts referrals from professionals working on cases of elder abuse.
What makes an E-MDT enhanced?
The enhancements provide access to three specialty service providers: civil legal attorneys, forensic accountants, and geriatric mental health professionals. These providers review case information, accept action items recommended by team members, and in many cases participate in team meetings. As necessary and appropriate, they may also provide direct services to elder abuse victims with funding through the E-MDT.
What makes this approach to elder abuse effective?
E-MDTs provide a holistic approach to elder abuse cases, resulting in a more efficient use of scarce resources and saving time for professionals. When a case is presented to the E-MDT, professionals have access to numerous disciplines and providers at one time. The result is a comprehensive response to each case, including recommendations to assist and support the victim.
When would a professional refer a case for review with an E-MDT Coordinator?
Professionals can make referrals to their local E-MDT Coordinator for any cases involving adults aged 60 and older when there are signs of any form of elder abuse (financial exploitation, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect by other). The E-MDT Coordinator will work one-on-one with professionals to provide support and recommendations and to determine if the case is appropriate for review by the E-MDT. If the case is not appropriate for the E-MDT, the Coordinator can still provide suggestions, make referrals to other providers, and provide access to the enhanced service providers.
How does a professional refer a case to their local E-MDT?
To find your county’s E-MDT Coordinator, or for more information regarding the Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team Initiative, please contact Allison Granata, Assistant Director for E-MDT Initiatives at Lifespan of Greater Rochester, at (585) 287-6440 or [email protected]. Currently, there are E-MDTs in 58 counties across New York State, with more on the way!
