What Is a Geriatric Doctor?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Geriatric doctors play a vital role in the healthcare system by providing specialized care tailored to the needs of older adults. Through comprehensive assessments, medication management, and a multidisciplinary approach, geriatricians help improve the quality of life and health outcomes for the aging population. Their work is crucial in managing the complexities of aging and ensuring that older adults receive the best possible care.

A geriatric doctor, also known as a geriatrician, is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of older adults. These specialists focus on the unique health needs of the aging population, addressing complex medical issues that often accompany aging, such as multiple chronic conditions, polypharmacy, and cognitive decline1 4 5.

Comprehensive Geriatric Care

Geriatricians are trained to perform comprehensive geriatric assessments (CGA), which are thorough evaluations of an older adult’s health status. This includes physical health, mental health, functional ability, and social circumstances. The goal of CGA is to develop a coordinated and integrated plan for treatment and long-term follow-up6 9. Studies have shown that CGA can improve outcomes for older adults, such as reducing hospital admissions and improving quality of life1 5.

Medication Management

One of the critical roles of a geriatrician is managing medications for older adults, who often take multiple prescriptions. Geriatricians work to optimize medication regimens to reduce the risk of adverse drug reactions and interactions, which are common in this age group4 5. Collaborative medication reviews involving geriatricians and family physicians have been shown to improve health-related quality of life in older patients4.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Geriatricians often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and other specialists. This team approach is essential for addressing the multifaceted needs of older adults, ensuring comprehensive care that covers all aspects of their health and well-being6 9.

Impact on Healthcare Utilization

Research indicates that geriatrician-performed care can influence healthcare utilization patterns. For instance, it may reduce the need for primary healthcare services and improve the overall quality of life for older adults1 5. However, the impact on secondary healthcare utilization, such as hospital admissions, can vary depending on the setting and specific interventions used1 3.